Null Subjects in Slavic Heritage Languages (A02)

• Subject Area: General and Comparative Linguistics, Experimental Linguistics, Typology, Non-European Languages ; Individual Linguistics, Historical Linguistics
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 551281144

This project provides a detailed analysis of internal and external factors influencing the use and interpretation of silent vs. overt subjects in Slavic heritage bilinguals. It compares a consistent (Polish) and a partial (Russian) null subject language (NSL) across two contact settings: with German (non-NSL) and Italian (consistent NSL). Data from different age groups of heritage speakers and their caregivers (first-generation immigrants) will be analyzed. By addressing key factors affecting the use and interpretation of silent subjects in bilinguals, the study contributes to a better understanding of silence in natural languages.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1760: SiNoSi: Silence, Noise and Signal in Language
• Applicant Institution: Universität Konstanz
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Bernhard Brehmer