Mandarin resultative verb compounds: Simple syntax and complex thematic relations

► The paper offers a comprehensive lexical-semantic account of Mandarin resultative verb compounds (RVCs). ► The complex thematic relations expressed by RVCs result from different ways of realizing the Causer and the Causee. ► The account helps explicate the relation between the Agent and the Causer. ► The study provides support for a division of labor between syntax on the one hand and semantics (and pragmatics) on the other.