Parametric Variations in Urdu and French: Examining Null Subject Parameters
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62997/rl.2025.41030Keywords:
Parameters, French, Urdu, Universal GrammarAbstract
Universal Grammar principles indicate that our natural linguistic abilities comprise a restricted collection of fundamental principles shared by all languages, with distinctions arising from parameters. Essentially, these parameters determine the syntactic variations between languages within the defined constraints of a specific parameter. This research explores a particular parametric difference between Urdu and French, focusing on the null subject parameter and assessing whether Urdu and French function as null subjects or pro-drop languages. It examines the interaction between a mechanic and a driver in Urdu, complementing this with a French translation of the same dialogue. The results indicate that the null-subject element is a key characteristic of Urdu syntax, while French is categorized as a non-prodrop or non-null subject language. Furthermore, whereas the French structure does not allow for null subjects, Urdu adheres to the pro-drop or null subject classification as determined by a binary principle. The study is significant as it contributes new linguistic insights to the principles and parameters framework.
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