Multi-word Determiners

The system recognizes the multi-word determiners a few and many a. The features for a multi-word determiner are located on the parent node of its two components (see Figure 18.3). We chose to represent these determiners as multi-word constituents because neither determiner retains the same set of features as either of its parts. For example, the determiner a is 3sg and few is decreasing, while a few is 3pl and increasing. Additionally, many is 3pl and a displays constancy, but many a is 3sg and does not display constancy. Example sentences appear in ((270))-((271)).

• Multi-word Determiners

  (269)0(269

  (270)

  a few teaspoons of sugar should be adequate .  (270)0(270

  (271)

  many a man has attempted that stunt, but none have succeeded . 

  

Figure: Multi-word Determiner tree: $\beta$DDnx