Right node raising, scope, and plurality

Abstract

This paper establishes an empirical generalization about right node raising (‘RNR’), based on a novel test using interactions with focus operators: the rightmost constituent (‘pivot’) can take wide scope above the conjunction, as predicted by ex situ theories of RNR, and as previously argued in Sabbagh (2007). Wide scope is possible, however, only if the pivot is not associated with a position within an island (pace Sabbagh, 2007). Our results are compatible with a hybrid approach to RNR: there is (i) an ex situ analysis achieved by rightward ATB-movement which is island-sensitive, and (ii) an analysis with the pivot in situ, which does not require movement.