Double Object Construction (definition)

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For a discussion of the lack of a double object construction in Scottish Gaelic see Double Object Construction

Definition

The double object construction in English is found with some ditransitive verbs, such as give, buy and send (1 & 2). In this construction the indirect object appears before the direct object and is not marked with a preposition.

  1. Tako gave Zelda the cake
  2. Dave bought Melissa the flowers

Gaelic does not have double object constructions like (1)-(2). Instead, the indirect object must appear after the direct object and must be always be marked with a prepositional phrase.

See Also

External Links

References

  • Carnie, Andrew (2006). Syntax: A Generative Introduction. 2nd edition. Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell.