Studies in Applied Linguistics 2: 137-168 (Dec. 1998)

Gustar and other verbs with a single object have posed many problems for learners of Spanish and for linguistic theory. The problem lies in the definition of transitivity in terms of case (i.e., a predicate is transitive if it has an accusative object), a definition known to lack predictive power. This article argues for a definition of transitivity in terms of thematic roles. This definition allows learners to predict which verbs will behave like gustar, without the need for a list. The definition of a transitive predicate as one with a VERBER and a VERBED will be shown to have a predictive power that second language learners can understand and apply. Case marking is shown to be more predictable than has been thought, and an explanation for the preference for dative marking when accusative is expected will be offered.

 

Editor: Bill VanPatten
Studies in Applied Linguistics

Home