Basic clausal structures in modern Persian

This paper has a new look at the structural elements of Persian kernel clause. The label ‘kernel’ excludes all optional elements. Accordingly, only obligatory categories, namely, complements and the predicator are dealt with here. The clause structure is analyzed from two perspectives. First, the possible kernel structures were analyzed and classified based on transitivity and complexity. In this context, the position of Persian in terms of dual-transitive, mono-transitive, complex-intransitive and complex-transitive patterns is discussed. Second, the possible kernel structures are discussed and classified with regard to transitivity and valency.By nature, Persian contains no di-transitive pattern. Intransitive and mono-transitive clausal patterns of Persian, including ordinary and complex intransitives/transitives, form four patterns. Using valency in conjunction with transitivity as two deciding factors, we identify six clausal patterns for Persian: one mono-valent, three bi-valent and two tri-valent patterns.