Experimenting with single-pair vs. pair-list interpretations in Russian multiple wh-clauses

Abstract

The paper reports on an experiment that shows the preference of pair-list interpretations over single-pair interpretations in Russian multiple coordinated and non-coordinated wh-interrogatives and wh-exclamatives. Moreover, the paper points out that neither the Superiority effect nor the distinction between argument and adjunct wh-phrases determines the choice of an interpretation in interrogatives and exclamatives. In general, the results challenge the existing theories of multiple wh-interrogatives and open a new page in investigating multiple wh-exclamatives.