Resumptive Relatives and LF Chains

Abstract

Abstract Many languages use resumptive relativization as a normal strategy alongside “gap” relativization. An important question is under which conditions either strategy is adopted. Recent research has concentrated mainly on the distribution of resumptive pronouns along the NP Accessibility Hierarchy proposed by Keenan and Comrie (1977): it has been pointed out that cross-linguistically, gap relativization tends to occur in the highest positions of the hierarchy, whereas resumptive pronouns tend to be obligatory in the lower oblique positions. In some languages, however, the two strategies seem to freely alternate in the subject and direct object position.