Lexical Semantics and Pragmatics 2022/2023

Homework Assignment 1: Due October 26th 2022

Name:

1. We have discussed in class the fact that different authors propose different lists of
thematic roles. Consider first the list proposed by Cruse (2006). 1 Now find one additional
alternative list (you will need to cite your sources: do NOT use Wikipedia!) Describe the
terms in both lists and compare them to Brinton and Brinton's. Which roles are the same
(regardless of the label used)? Which roles are different?
[Important note: Plagiarism is penalized! Cite your sources]

2. Now consider the following sentences. Indicate the predicates and the semantic
arguments and identify the thematic roles of the arguments. Analyze all sentences
according to Brinton and Brinton’s and to one of the alternative lists you have discussed in
(2) [specify which]. Briefly discuss whether Brinton and Brinton’s classification is enough
or whether you would propose additional distinctions to their proposed list of roles.

1. The police dog saw the thief.

2. We ran a marathon in Boston last week.
3. The thief shot the police officer dead.
4. Laura flew from Boston to New York.
5. Chicago is called the windy city.
6. Could you post this letter for me?
7. Smallpox decimated Native American tribes
8. There is an opera theater in this town.
9. They named Mary head of the department.
10. Anthony built a sandcastle at the beach last week

1
Cruse, Allan (2006) A glossary of semantics and pragmatics. Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press.