Unit 4: Syntax
Lecture Note #15: Interpretation of non-finite verbs

a.*Jane wants Amy she (Amy) to change her job.
b.* Jane wants she (Jane) to change her job.

Why are the above sentences unacceptable?
In a subordinate sentence, the subject of the non-finite verb (to change here) is not allowed to be expressed.

To be grammatical sentences, the sentences should read:
c. Jane(i) wants Amy(j) (j) to change her job.
d. Jane(i) wants (i) to change her job.

Now look at the following non-finite adjunct verbs:
e. Jane(i) invited Alice(j) (i) to please Bill.
f. Jane(i) invited Alice(j) (j) to please Bill.

e. and f. make perfect sense. Either Jane or Alice could be the actor of the non-finite verb (to please) The following sentences, however, do not seem to be the same cases.

g. Jane(i) bought Alice(j) a gift (i) to please Bill.
h.* Jane(i) bought Alice(j) a gift (j) to please Bill.

Here, only Jane could be the actor of the non-finite verb (to please).

The above idea about the unexpressed object of non-finite verbs in subordinate sentences would lead us to the following generalization about the finite verbs in subordinate sentences. Finite verbs in subordinate sentences do require the presence of the subject.

Look at the following ungrammatical sentences:

i.* Anne told Mary that turned in her resignation.
j.* Anne didn't say why left IBM.
k.* Anne said that encouraged her to apply for the job.