Japanese Contrast Sluicing and Pair-List Questions

Abstract

In this squib we investigate contrast sluicing in Japanese with multiple wh questions antecedents. Contrast sluicing in such cases presents a puzzling asymmetry, which reflects the differing status of the two wh-phrases in pair-list multiple wh questions (Kuno, 1982, Dayal, 1996; a.o.). We will argue that this asymmetry can be explained through careful consideration of the syntax/semantics of pair-list questions, together with the common movement-and-deletion approach to the derivation of contrast sluicing (see e.g. Merchant, 2001) and the possibility of argument ellipsis in Japanese.