Does the level of language learning correlates with the preference of the to-infinitive or the ing-form with German as a first language? We hypothesized that language learners with a higher level prefer using the ing-form. The second question regards a possible correlation between the use of verb forms and semantics. The hypothesis is that to-complements are preferred to ing-complements in sentences with future reference. [...]
Have you ever stumbled over a sentence such as She intends _____ (drive) to her grandma for Christmas, and you were not sure if you should say to drive or driving to her grandma? A similar uncertainty can appear in the following sentences; would you choose the first or second variant?
(1) I hate to go to the camp next week.
I hate going to the camp next week.
(2) I try to make it next week.
I try making it next week.
In this situation, you probably intuitively decide between the to-infinitive or the gerund (ingform) without applying a rule. This phenomenon of the variables of catenative verbs, where the main verb is followed by another submissive verb, could have multiple explanations. It could be influenced by semantics, proficiency level or educational background.
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Theoretical Background
- 2.1. Catenative Verbs
- 2.2. Gerund or to-infinitive
- 3. Experimental study
- 3.1. Methodology
- 3.2. Subjects
- 3.3. Method
- 3.4. Results
- 4. Discussion
Objectives and Key Themes
This term paper investigates the influence of language proficiency and semantics on the choice between to-infinitives and gerunds following catenative verbs in German native speakers. The study explores whether higher language proficiency correlates with a preference for the gerund and if semantic context (specifically, future reference) influences the choice of to-complement versus ing-complement.
- The influence of language proficiency level on the preference for to-infinitives versus gerunds.
- The correlation between semantic context (future reference) and the choice of to-complement versus ing-complement.
- Analysis of catenative verb constructions and their different forms.
- Examination of existing research on catenative verbs and their acquisition.
- Methodology and results of an experimental study using a questionnaire.
Chapter Summaries
1. Introduction: This chapter introduces the research question concerning the choice between to-infinitives and gerunds following catenative verbs. It highlights the ambiguity that can arise in such constructions and poses two main research hypotheses: that higher language proficiency correlates with a preference for the gerund, and that to-complements are preferred in sentences with future reference. The chapter sets the stage for the study by referencing a previous study by Azazil (2020) which examined the frequency effect of catenative verbs but didn't explore proficiency level or semantic influence on complement choice, thus setting the context for the current study's contribution.
2. Theoretical Background: This section provides a foundational understanding of catenative verbs and the gerund/to-infinitive distinction. It defines catenative verbs as verbs followed by a subordinated verb, noting the four possible forms (bare infinitive, to-infinitive, -ing form, -ed form) and emphasizing their inherent dependency on a second verb for grammatical correctness. Drawing on the work of Rizo (1990) and Mindt (1999), it elaborates on the structure of catenative verb constructions, including variations involving intervening noun phrases. The chapter then delves into the crucial distinction between gerunds and to-infinitives, showing how their use can subtly alter sentence meaning and providing illustrative examples where the choice between them significantly impacts the interpretation.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the main topic of this research paper?
This term paper investigates how language proficiency and semantic context influence the choice between to-infinitives and gerunds following catenative verbs in German native speakers. It explores whether higher proficiency correlates with a gerund preference and if semantic context (especially future reference) impacts the choice between to-complements and ing-complements.
What are catenative verbs?
Catenative verbs are verbs followed by a subordinated verb. The paper explains that they can take four forms (bare infinitive, to-infinitive, -ing form, -ed form) and emphasizes their dependence on a second verb for grammatical correctness. The research delves into the structure of these constructions, including variations with intervening noun phrases.
What is the difference between gerunds and to-infinitives in this context?
The paper highlights the subtle but significant differences in meaning that can arise from choosing between a gerund and a to-infinitive following a catenative verb. It provides examples showing how this choice impacts the interpretation of a sentence.
What are the key research hypotheses?
The study proposes two main hypotheses: 1) Higher language proficiency correlates with a preference for the gerund; and 2) To-complements are preferred in sentences with future reference.
What is the methodology of the study?
The study uses an experimental approach employing a questionnaire. Details about the methodology, subjects, and method are provided in Chapter 3.
What are the key themes explored in the paper?
Key themes include the influence of language proficiency on complement choice, the correlation between semantic context (future reference) and complement choice, the analysis of catenative verb constructions, examination of existing research on catenative verb acquisition, and the methodology and results of the experimental study.
What previous research is referenced?
The introduction references a previous study by Azazil (2020) which examined the frequency effect of catenative verbs but didn't explore proficiency level or semantic influence on complement choice. The theoretical background draws on the work of Rizo (1990) and Mindt (1999) regarding catenative verb constructions.
What are the chapter summaries?
Chapter 1 introduces the research question and hypotheses. Chapter 2 provides a theoretical background on catenative verbs and the gerund/to-infinitive distinction. Chapter 3 details the experimental study (methodology, subjects, method, results). Chapter 4 discusses the findings.
What are the key words associated with this research?
While not explicitly listed, key words can be inferred from the content, including: catenative verbs, gerunds, to-infinitives, language proficiency, semantic context, future reference, German, experimental study, questionnaire.
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- Stefanie Gerrits (Autor), 2021, Is the usage of specific catenative verb constructions influenced by semantics or proficiency?, Múnich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1294331
