Introduction

Abstract

In the past twenty years or so, there have been numerous studies of the Japanese language in a generative framework, including pioneering works by Shige-Yuki Kuroda (Kuroda 1965b) and Susumu Kuno (Kuno 1973a). These and other works have set a standard in generative studies of Japanese. We have seen many rules, particularly transformational rules, that have succeeded in giving systematic explanations of various phenomena, including passive and causative constructions, the interpretation of the reflexive zibun and the so-called zero pronouns (gaps). Some of the transformational rules have been direct counterparts of the rules for English and some have been unique to Japanese. These works have demonstrated that the overall framework of generative grammar is universal in the sense that it can give adequate descriptions of diverse languages in the world, including English and Japanese, that have little in common typologically.