With the observations of the usage of zero and topicalized arguments discussed in chapter 3, this chapter applies the findings to RRG and shows how the observed regularities are captured in the theory. This chapter pays special attention to interfaces with discourse-pragmatics in the theory, particularly bidirectional interactions between syntax and pragmatics. The discussion begins with the focus structure of sentences, which is then integrated with the salience hierarchies proposed in chapter 3. This is followed by the discussion of linking between semantic and syntactic representations, which also involves discourse representation structures. The bidirectional interactions with discourse representation structures capture not only the discourse influence on syntax but also the other direction of the interface, i.e. how the speakers’ forward-looking intentions, manifested by the morphosyntactic realization of information, influence discourse representation structures.

The introductory chapter presents an overview of the book with key notions and theoretical approaches employed in the study. The noteworthy feature of the study is the integration of discourse analysis and grammatical analysis to describe how discourse and syntax influence each other and further develop the RRG theory of the syntax–semantics–discourse interface, and the inclusion of L2 discourse analysis, as well as L1 discourse, to demonstrate the relevance of L2 analysis to issues outside traditional second-language research.