6 Syntax

- Intransitive: `S V` or `S Adv V` - Transitive: `S O V` or `S O Adv V`

Section 6

- Intransitive: `S V` or `S Adv V` - Transitive: `S O V` or `S O Adv V`

### 6.1 Clause Order

> **Rule:** Basic clause order is fixed **S O V**. The finite verb is always clause-final.

- Intransitive: `S V` or `S Adv V`
- Transitive: `S O V` or `S O Adv V`
- Adverbs strictly occupy the **pre-verbal slot**.

**Pro-Drop & Transitivity:** If a transitive verb is used but the specific direct object is omitted, the 3SG pronoun `a` acts as a **mandatory placeholder** to maintain `S O V` structure.

### 6.2 Predicate Types

| Type                 | Construction                    |
|----------------------|---------------------------------|
| Verbal               | Clause-final verb               |
| Nominal / adjectival | Copular/existential verb `suru` |

### 6.3 Noun Phrase Order

> **Rule:** All modifiers precede their heads.

- Adjective before noun: `ADJ N`
- Possessor before possessed: `POSS no N`
- Relative clause before head noun

### 6.4 Postpositional Phrases