Wh-dependency

Island

Experimental sentences in Sprouse et al. (2012)

Main clause

None

Who thinks that [the lawyer forgot his briefcase at the office]?

Embedded clause

None

What do you think that [the lawyer forgot at the office]?

Main clause

Adjunct clause

Who worries if [the lawyer forgets his briefcase at the office]?

Embedded clause

Adjunct clause

What do you worry if [the lawyer forgets at the office]?

Main clause

None

Who heard that [Jeff baked a pie]?

Embedded clause

None

What did the chef hear that [Jeff baked]?

Main clause

Complex NP

Who heard the statement that [Jeff baked a pie]?

Embedded clause

Complex NP

What did the chef hear the statement that [Jeff baked]?

Main clause

None

Who thinks that [Matt chased the bus]?

Embedded clause

None

What does the police officer think that [Matt chased]?

Main clause

Indirect question

Who wonders whether [Matt chased the bus]?

Embedded clause

Indirect question

What does the police officer wonder whether [Matt chased]?