Match Theory and the Asymmetry Problem: An Example from Stockholm Swedish

This article discusses what we call the Asymmetry Problem, a theoretical question of how asymmetric properties prosodic phrasing should generally be accounted for within framework Match Theory. Unlike Alignment Theory, in which asymmetry can derived by mapping constraints (e.g., Align-XP), Theory cannot derive any from (i.e., Match) constraints. Thus, may seem to face empirical problems when data appear an ranking starts with discussion one such case Stockholm Swedish, where has been proposed account data. It will argued that arises directionality heads right- or left-headedness) rather than syntax–prosody mapping, and explained through interaction markedness determine distribution heads. Furthermore, it analysis reduces need Alignment-based therefore follows Minimal Interface Hypothesis, assumes as sole To support this line analysis, shown Problem Japanese, had previously both are needed, also under hypothesis.