In this study of how syntax relates to meaning, Paul Pietroski defends the hyposthesis that combining expressions corresponds to predicate-conjunction and not function-application. Chapters cover a range of constructions involving causative and serial verbs, plural noun-phrases, and complementizer phrases. The book represents a lucid contribution to the field by a leader of the new generation of philosopher-linguists.

• 1: Elementary Cases


• 2: Quantification and Plurality


• 3: Causal Verbs and Sentential Complements


• Bibliography


• Index

Paul Pietroski is Professor of Philosophy and Professor of Linguistics at the University of Maryland. He is the author of Causing Actions and many articles concerning the semantics of natural language.