Proof-Theoretic Semantics for Intensional Transitive Verbs
Nissim Francez · Journal of Semantics · 2016
The article presents a proof-theoretic semantics for intensional transitive verbs (ITVs), with the following three characteristics: (i) non-specific interpretation of indefinite objects; (ii) resistance to substitution of coextensive objects; and (iii) no existential commitment. The article also shows how to handle monotonicity reasoning for ITVs. A central advantage of the approach is the absence to any ontological commitment characteristic of model-theoretic semantics, where there is no consensus about what populates models. Finally, the article discusses passivization of ITVs.