An Advanced Methodological Optimization of Syntax-Prosody Interface in Multilingual Contexts

Abstract

This study investigates the Syntax-Prosody Interface (SPI) within multilingual contexts, addressing a notable gap in linguistic theory concerning language interaction phenomena. Employing a mixed-methods approach, we conducted a corpus-based analysis complemented by psycholinguistic experiments to evaluate how syntax influences prosodic structures across languages. Our findings reveal significant cross-linguistic variations in SPI, with notable implications for language processing models. Specifically, we identified that certain syntactic constructions in L2 languages exhibit prosodic patterns akin to their L1 counterparts, challenging previous assumptions of strict language separation. The quantitative results indicate a p-value of <0.01 for the correlation between syntax complexity and prosodic marking, suggesting that multilingual speakers utilize nuanced cognitive strategies to navigate their linguistic environments. This research contributes to the understanding of multilingualism, offering insights into the cognitive mechanisms underlying language use and acquisition. Our results have implications for future linguistic theory and applied linguistics in educational contexts and language policy formulation.