Syntax

Question 1

What is syntax?

Answer 1

Knowledge of legal word orderings; the structure of phrases and sentences

Question 2

Assumptions in syntax:

Answer 2

It’s easier to read sentences that are grammatically correct

We instantly recognize a good or bad sentence

Question 3

Syntax and semantics can be ___________

Answer 3

separated - can look at syntax without meaning

Question 4

Chomsky’s outlook on syntax:

Answer 4

With syntax, an infinite number of sentences can be generated from a small set of simple rules

Question 5

Phrase structure:

Answer 5

Breaking sentences down into their constituents
S --> NP + VP
NP --> (det) (adj) N (PP)
VP --> V (NP) (PP)
PP --> P NP

Question 6

What are the two types of transformational grammar?

Answer 6

Surface structure - surface arrangements of the parts

Deep structure - underlying structure that conveys meaning

Question 7

You can have different _______ structure, but keep the same ______ meaning.

Answer 7

surface; deep

Question 8

What is the derivational theory of complexity (DTC)?

Answer 8

Assumes that for speaking: deep structure –> surface structure
And for listening: surface structure –> deep structure

Question 9

Predictions about processing:

Answer 9

Sentences with more transformations (to understand or produce) should be harder to process