The syntax division of Potsdam linguistics unites researchers with an interest in theoretical (generative) syntax and its interfaces with semantics and phonology. Our research takes a cross-linguistic perspective and aims at documenting and understanding the grammatical variation between the world's languages in the area of sentence structure, as well as at explaining the (non-)attested patterns in formal models of grammar. Our overall goal is to gain a better understanding of the sources of variability in language and, as a result, of the architecture of grammar. Methodologically, we employ fieldwork, experimental approaches and cross-linguistic (typological) comparisons.
