摘要：This paper explores the conceptual basis of finite complementation in English. It first considers the distinguishing property of a finite clause,namely grounding,effected by tense and the modals. Notions crucial for clausal grounding—including a reality conception and the striving for control at the effective and epistemic levels—also figure in the semantic import of complementation. An essential feature of complement constructions is the involvement of multiple conceptualizers,each with their own conception of reality. The different types of complement and their grammatical markings can be characterized on this basis. Finite complements differ from other types by virtue of expressing an autonomous proposition capable of being apprehended by multiple conceptualizers,each from their own vantage point. A cognitive model representing phases in the striving for epistemic control provides a partial basis for the semantic description of predicates taking finite complements. The same model supports the description of both personal and impersonal complement constructions.

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