WiSe22/23: Constraint-based Semantics 2

HPSG-neutral notation for LRS

Constraints

Metavariables: α, β, ɣ, ..., φ, ψ, ...

Contribution constraints:

• call(x)
  The semantic representation of a sign with a contribution constraint of the form call(x) must be an expression containing call(x) as a subexpression
• ¬α
  The semantic representation of a sign with a contribution constraint of the form ¬α must be an expression containing ¬α as a subexpression where α can be any expression.

Embedding constraints:

• α[call(x)]
  The metavariable α is any expression containing call(x) as a subexpression.

Combinatorial semantics

When two signs combine,

1. all constraints on the combining signs' semantic representation also apply to the resulting combination, and
2. additional constraints may be added through principles of grammar.

Internal content

internal content: The scopally lowest contributed element, marked as {...}

• call: {call(x)}
• everyone: ∀x({person(x)} : β[x])

External content

external content: The semantic representation of a complete sign, marked by underlining.

• everyone: ∀x({person(x)} : β[x])