Tikrit University

A Comparative Analysis between X-bar Theory and Bare Phrase Structure (BPS) Theory in the Kurdish Language.

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Salahaddin University, College of Language, Department of Kurdish Language

Abstract
This research, titled "A Comparative Analysis between X-bar Theory and Bare Phrase Structure (BPS) Theory in the Kurdish Language," presents a comparative evaluation of two major theories in the field of syntax: X-bar Theory and Bare Phrase Structure (BPS) Theory. X-bar Theory, developed in the 1970s and 1980s, introduced a static, three-tiered framework (XP, X', X) for analyzing phrase structure. Although this theory was initially beneficial for modeling syntax, it faced criticism due to several shortcomings, including its pre-supposition of static and non-dynamic phrase levels. In contrast, Bare Phrase Structure (BPS) Theory, introduced by Chomsky within the "Minimalist Program" in 1995, revolutionized the understanding of sentence structure by eliminating redundant levels and relying on the "Merge" operation. BPS dynamically and derivationally constructs structures, which obviates fixed predictions such as the existence of 'X' or 'XP'. The study meticulously examines the benefits and features of both theories using examples from the Kurdish language. The findings indicate that BPS Theory is more suitable and robust due to its simplicity, economy, and greater capacity for analyzing syntactic phenomena in Kurdish, particularly in terms of its compatibility with phonological and semantic interfaces. This research emphasizes that BPS offers a dynamic and derivational system that better aligns with the goals of the Minimalist Program.

Keywords

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Volume 9, Issue 4, Part 2
Autumn 2025
Pages 74-104

  • Receive Date 17 April 2025
  • Accept Date 21 May 2025
  • Publish Date 01 December 2025