Evidence for a Layering Derivation Approach to By-phrases and MACs in Korean but not Japanese

Abstract

Korean and Japanese differ with respect to (i) how by-phrases are realized and (ii) whether the grammar allows multiple accusative constructions (MACs): (i) Korean -eyuyhay by-phrases can be associated with different theta-roles such as agent/causer, experiencer, and source, whereas Japanese -niyotte by-phrases are only associated with agent/causer (see Park, 2018). Furthermore, Korean allows MACs whereas Japanese does not (also known as the ‘Double-o Constraint’). In this work, I argue that these discrepancies are accounted for if a version of sideward movement (i.e. layering derivation; see Thoms, 2019) is posited for Korean by-phrases and MACs but not for Japanese. The analysis captures both of the empirical facts that appear to be unrelated at first glance. A key takeaway of this paper is that the adjunct vs. argument distinction observed in one aspect of the grammar has implications for the presence/absence of MACs in Korean and Japanese. While the two languages share a great number of commonalities, I argue that this is one area where they part.