Predicational and specificational copular sentences in Logoori

Abstract

This chapter presents data from Logoori (Bantu) which shows morphosyntactic evidence for two different strategies in place in copular sentences. Unlike English, Logoori predicational and specificational copular sentences do not (have to) have a similar surface syntax. It is claimed that the crucial difference does not rest on two distinct types of underlying predicational structures, rather it is the result of two different derivations. In Logoori, when the referential phrase is in a precopular position, it can either occupy the canonical subject position or (in some cases) it can be dislocated. On the other hand, when the predicative phrase is in precopular position it can only occupy a dislocated position, supporting an inverse analysis for specificational (and identificational) copular sentences in which the predicate must be dislocated outside the TP, much in the spirit of Moro (1997).