Universal 915: externally modifiable NP > backgrounded NP > demoted NP > nonreferential noun

Universal 915: externally modifiable NP > backgrounded NP > demoted NP > nonreferential noun

Original

Hierarchy of incorporability:
externally modifiable NP > backgrounded NP > demoted NP > nonreferential noun.

If a language allows incorporation of a semantic type at a certain point on the hierarchy, then it allows incorporation of all types to the right of it on the hierarchy.

Standardized

IF incorporation of externally modifiable NP, THEN incorporation of backgrounded NP.
IF incorporation of backgrounded NP, THEN incorporation of demoted NP.
IF incorporation of demoted NP, THEN incorporation of nonreferential noun.

Keywords

incorporation, noun

Domain

morphology, syntax

Type

implicational hierarchy

Status

achronic

Quality

absolute

Basis

over 100 languages in Mithun 1984a

Source

Mithun 1984a

Counterexamples