ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-133-027 · ATLAS 251

Verb-Second Sentence

A sentence structure in which the finite verb occupies the second position, regardless of the type of the first constituent.

Explanation

A sentence structure in which the finite verb occupies the second position, regardless of the type of the first constituent. A stable verbal anchor allows for varying elements in the prefield.

Example

“Today, Lea reads the book” and “Lea reads the book today” both demonstrate verb-second construction.

Counterexample

“That Lea reads the book today” is a verb-first clause.

Distinction

Delimiting the prefield: “That Lea reads the book today” is a verb-second sentence.

Effect on thought and perception

A stable verbal pivot allows for varying elements in the prefield.

Resonance

A verb-second sentence makes a directed relationship perceptible: A stable verbal pivot allows for varying elements in the prefield.

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Verb-Second Sentence“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-133-027. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-133-027

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-133-027

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