On Syntactic and Semantic Functions of Verba Sentiendi in Sentence/Clause Linking

Abstract

In Turkish there are several formal syntactic options to link propositions which are semantically related to each other. Sentences/clauses can be juxtaposed, coordinated or subordinated syntactically. Very close semantic relationships can exist even between juxtaposed sentences, whereby the conjunctional adverbs play an important role. Yet, there are also possibilities to connect sentences without conjunctional adverbs. Indeed, a combination pattern created using verbs of sensation/perception provides such possibility. This combination pattern mostly occurs in the spoken language, including the dialects. It is also frequently used in historical texts. The pattern in question consists at least of three propositions (A, B and C segments) and for its configuration a verb of sensation/perception is necessary as the first predication. Sometimes the verb of perception is followed by the conjunction ki, though not obligatory. In sentences thus formed, there occurs between second and third segments (propositions) a semantic relation, which can be interpreted as temporal succession, causality or conditionality. Another precondition for this pattern is the existence of shared subject between the first and third predications. This paper discusses the structure, semantic and syntactic features of the mentioned combination pattern that has up to the present remained undescribed and compares contemporary examples with historical ones. Moreover, in order to shed further light on the subject, it also examines parallel phenomena in other languages.