PREPOSITION ASSIGNMENT IN ENGLISH 307benef active accomplishments, LS 2 is a component — but not an argument
— of LS1 (see (73b)). The shared argument in the two structures (cake) is
guaranteed by the completeness constraint on mapping between logical and
semantic structures (FVV:183, "Synopsis", sect. 5.2). In the deputative sit
uations, LS1 and LS 2 are linked by CAUSE, and LS 2 = NOT LS1. In these
contexts, for functions as an adjunct. As stated, the predicative functions
realize all semantic components of purposive for and thus would be
regarded as prototypical functions.
3. Concluding comments
This analysis began with the assumption that prepositions specify two func
tional roles: predicative and non-predicative functions. We assumed that
the semantic analysis of these functional roles would reveal LSs whose
specification would allow a unified analysis of predicative and non-predica
tive functions for a given preposition. A framework for analysis was out
lined in which parameters for investigation were defined by the decom
posed LSs of verbs; the Dowty/FVV verbal classification system; mac-
roroles of A and U; clause layer structures; and clause linkage relation
ships. As the analysis developed, some interesting discoveries were made.
Our bifunctional analysis evolved into a tripártate system, revealing three
classes of prepositions: (1) class one prepositions, the original non-predica
tive functions; (2) class two prepositions which we might label semi-predica
tive functions; and (3) class three prepositions, the original predicative,
clause-linkage functions specified in the lexicon. We have discovered that
the actual semantic components and primitives stipulated in the LS of to,
from, with ana for encompass a surprisingly limited inventory: BECOME,
NOT, CAUSE, DO, do', be', be-at', have' and want'. The restricted
inventory of components underlines the necessity of considering such vari
ables as macroroles and decomposed verbal structures to specify preposi
tional functions. Without these variables to specify the direction and focus
of analysis, we have a list of abstract operators and primitives with no
means of differentiating distinctive functions. Prepositional analysis must
take into account the total semantic and syntactic environment in which a
preposition occurs. Role and Reference Grammar provides a system for
analyzing and classifying significant components in the clause, making
explicit the relations between verbs and their arguments and, potentially,