LessonsFronting the Object: Correction, Restriction and Ordering of ComplementsQuiz

Two types of order change have been examined: placing a dependent before its verb, and arranging multiple dependents relative to one another. The first often supports correction or restriction; the second may reflect grammatical default or relative importance.

Correct analysis begins with valency and syntax, then asks what the prior discourse requires. The same fronted element may serve distinct communicative purposes.

TypeExampleFocus question
Object before verbزَيْدًا عَرَفْتُWhom?
Object pronoun before verbإِيَّاكَ نَعْبُدُTo whom is worship directed?
One object before anotherأَعْطَيْتُ زَيْدًا دِرْهَمًاRecipient or gift first?
Initial foregroundingبِسْمِ اللَّهِWith what should discourse begin?

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A final comparison of ordering patterns

Fronting the Object: Correction, Restriction and Ordering of Complements

Two types of order change have been examined: placing a dependent before its verb, and arranging multiple dependents relative to one another. The first often supports correction or restriction; the second may reflect grammatical default or relative importance.

Correct analysis begins with valency and syntax, then asks what the prior discourse requires. The same fronted element may serve distinct communicative purposes.

TypeExampleFocus question
Object before verbزَيْدًا عَرَفْتُWhom?
Object pronoun before verbإِيَّاكَ نَعْبُدُTo whom is worship directed?
One object before anotherأَعْطَيْتُ زَيْدًا دِرْهَمًاRecipient or gift first?
Initial foregroundingبِسْمِ اللَّهِWith what should discourse begin?