Les oracions de temença i la normativa catalana

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present the topic of Catalan sentence construction in expressions of apprehension (Temo que [...], Tinc por que [...]) in its formal and semantic complexity. In particular, statements of different grammars about the use of the negation adverb no in the affirmative subordinate clause are contrasted. Comparative examples from Latin and especially from French are used to illustrate a formal incongruity within the Catalan language system. Subsequently, a new evaluation of this topic is offered with reference to previous opinions, most of which are formulated negatively on the part of Catalan linguists. The view presented here is based on a genuine tradition that still exists, on a positive evaluation of the psychological value of this problematic negation adverb, and on a criticism of the argumentative approach in the linguistic discussion of the Catalan language norm.