Dynamic De finite Descriptions, Implicit Arguments, and Familiarity
Alice G. Β. ter Meulen · 2004
Abstract Asserted, presupposed, implicit, and inferred existential noun-phrases differ importantly in dynamic binding potential. Implicit existential arguments of predicates cannot constitute antecedents for pronouns, yet they bind the presuppositions of de finite descriptions in subsequent sentences and support inferred existentially quantified statements. A proper semantics must allow for free variables and an inference rule of existential generalization, a standard deductive rule in predicate logic. Lambda DRT principally separates the composition of a lambda-term for VPs from the declaration of its reference markers for NPs, projected from nuclear argument structure to constitute accessible antecedents.