Abstract

A key aspect of Standard Arabic syntax is the internal structure of complements and adjuncts within the verb phrase. The proper characterization of the mechanism by which these constituents are integrated into the verbal structure has not been closely examined. The aim of this article is to distinguish primary complements from secondary complements and adjuncts. Adopting the model proposed for English by DeArmond and Hedberg (1998, 2000, 2002), two levels of complements will be distinguished—the primary complement level (V1) and the secondary complement level (V2). The distinction will be justified on the basis of syntactic tests, including coordination, pseudo-cleft, omissibility, and repositioning.