This study has a twofold goal. First, it investigates the internal
structure of words and clauses in Standard Arabic (SA), in the light of
recent developments of Government and Binding Theory (GB). Second, it
argues for a specific theory of typology, and proposes a particular view
of how parametrization can be construed and executed. SA is a language
used throughout the Arab world, in contrast to specific local dialects
which are limited to a particular area. The language has a number of
features which make it particularly suitable for cross-linguistic
comparative morpho-syntax, as well as research in different modules of
the theory of grammar. SA morphology is essentially non-concatenative,
though a rich analytic affixation system makes word formation
hierarchical. Word order in SA is basically VSO, but the language has
alternative SVO structures as well. Sentences can be 'nominal' (i.e.
with no verb or copula realized at surface structure), or verbal.
Arguments can be left syntacti- cally unexpressed (i.e. SA is a null
argument language). SA is an agreement language, with a rich and complex
agreement system interacting with word order, pronominal incorporation,
and expletive structures. It also has a productive morphological case
system. Tense, Aspect, Modal, and Negation properties interact in
intriguing ways. Finally, SA's DP system exhibits interesting
complementary distributions between overt determiners, genitive
complements, and possessive markers. It also uses different licensing
strategies for Genitive Case marking.
