On the Focusing Function of Focusing Adverbs: A Discussion Based on Italian Data

Abstract

This paper discusses the focusing function of the so-called focusing adverbs. Based on Italian data, drawn mainly from authentic linguistic corpora, I will provide evidence of the fact that, despite their name, focusing adverbs are not always focusing. They can have a weak, a strong or an anti-focusing effect. The different focusing effects of these forms will be accounted for by showing that they are determined modularly by the interplay of prosodic, syntactic and informational factors.