Abstract
This paper proposes a derivational approach to selectional restrictions, arguing that it gives rise to a new system of phrase structure where there is an argument/adjunct asymmetry with respect to merger. In the system proposed here, arguments are required to be merged cyclically while adjuncts are required to be merged postcyclically, i.e., after argument-of relations are established. The proposed system receives strong empirical support from argument/adjunct asymmetries regarding reconstruction effects with Condition C of the binding theory, variable binding, and the interpretation of each other.
