Generally, DPs need to move to certain positions or configurations in order to check for case features (among other things) and allow spell-out. For example, raising predicates raise the subject of an embedded non-finite clause to [Spec, IP] of the matrix clause to check for NOM case, which the embedded clause is unable to assign. It also raises to get its EPP feature checked.
Mary seems to be sick
*It seems Mary to be sick
so far, this is true of phrases.
Are there any cases of heads (e.g. verbs, auxiliaries, modals, etc.) in any languages that require movement to a certain position or configuration (e.g. [Head, IP]) in order to be spelt-out?
I'm coming up with an analysis of Malay copulas that goes along the lines of the question above based on the observation that they are nonverbal, cannot occur in non-finite clauses, are non-overt when there are aspectual markers, negators and/or modal verbs in the same clause, etc.
If there is any literature on the topic, please send me the link.
