In:Current Perspectives on Generative SLA - Processing, Influence, and Interfaces: Selected proceedings of the 16th Generative Approaches to Second Language Acquisition Conference
Edited by Marta Velnić, Anne Dahl and Kjersti Faldet Listhaug
[Language Acquisition and Language Disorders 70] 2024
► pp. 63–86
Chapter 3Complements and adjuncts of one
in L2 English noun drop
Published online: 17 October 2024
https://doi.org/10.1075/lald.70.03bru
https://doi.org/10.1075/lald.70.03bru
Abstract
This study examines the constraint against complements of the pro-form one in L2
English of Spanish native speakers. Complements (*The belief in Santa is greater than the one in
Elvis) are disallowed, in contrast to adjuncts (The vase in the bedroom is nicer than the one in
the kitchen). Spanish exhibits opposite tendencies in noun ellipsis: complements are productive but
adjuncts are often restricted. Advanced Spanish learners performed as well as native speakers for most relevant
properties but there was a tendency to accept complements to a greater extent than the English L1 speakers. However,
7/15 participants performed in a native-like manner, evidence that learners are capable of overcoming L1 effects in
spite of the relative infrequency of relevant contexts.
Keywords: noun ellipsis, complements, adjuncts, L2 English
Article outline
- 1.Introduction
- 2.The syntax of noun drop in Spanish and English: What learners have to acquire
- 3.Methodology
- 3.1Participants
- 3.2Materials
- 3.3Procedures
- 4.Group results
- 4.1Production task
- 4.2Felicity judgement task
- 4.3Grammaticality judgement task
- 5.Individual results for the contrast between complements and adjuncts of the pro-form ‘one’
- 6.Discussion
Notes References Appendix
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