The derivation of highest subject questions and the nature of the EPP

Abstract

This squib argues that matrix subject wh-phrases reside in SpecCP and moreover during the course of the derivation, never move to SpecTP. This observation raises an immediate problem for languages with a strong EPP requirement on T, such as English. I argue that Chomsky (2013)’s approach to EPP effects (and other similar approaches) predict the observed pattern, while other prominent theories of the EPP fail to account for it.

Keywords

• movement
• EPP
• labeling
• subjects
• A/A’ distinction