The English Language english language

Delahunty and Garvey

(18)a’. AP (18)b’. AP (18)c’. AP

A Int A A PP

impertinent very impertinent unaware of any

wrongdoing

(18)d’. AP (18)e’. AP

A S A Inf

disappointed that someone had lied afraid to make a

move

(18)f’. AP

AdvP A PP

fully aware of his surroundings

These trees can be generated by the following PSR:

(20) AP ——> ({Int/AdvP}) A ({PP/S/Inf})

We read this as: an adjective phrase consists of an optional intensifier or ad-
verb phrase, an adjective, and an optional PP, S, or infinitival.

Exercise

1. Each of the following is an adjective phrase. Identify its head ad-
   jective, any modifiers, and any complements. For each modifier and
   complement you find, indicate its part of speech.
   a. sad
   b. quite attractive
   c. extremely volatile
   d. disappointed that he has to leave
   e. eager to get on with his life


2. In the following clauses, draw brackets around each AP, underline
   the head adjective, and identify any modifiers and/or complements
   and provide their parts of speech. Don’t forget to use formal criteria to