Perception

Question

We human beings are able to picture things and events beyond any actual perception.About 'beyond any actual perception', does it refer to 'things and events' or '(are) able to picture'?

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

I wonder if there is a difference.

(1) able to picture beyond ... perception

(2) events beyond ... perception

If you can imagine things without seeing them (1), you can imagine things that can't be seen (2).

Nevertheless, I vote for (1). I would say the 'beyond' phrase goes with 'able to picture'.

CJ

Taka · Answer

Well, it's a question I asked long time ago here:

I was reviewing it, wondering if the reply made sense or not.

Would you disagree with davkett, Jim?

Dave_anon · Answer

Hi

The word "beyond" can be taken either as an adverb or as a prepositional part of an adjectival phrase..

- We have explored the mountains; now we must go beyond

[= adverb]

- These are things beyond our understanding

[= preposition, introducing an adjectival phrase]

In the sentence you give, it can be taken either way. With such sentences, I tend to create questions and see which sounds best..

- Thanks to language, how can you picture things?

- I can picture things beyond

[= adverbial use: sounds a bit doubtful]

<or>

- What things can you speak of?

- Of things that are beyond any actual perception

[= preposition, going into adjectival phrase: sounds OK]

So I would go with the second: "beyond" attaches first of all to "any actual perception" which forms an adjectival phrase. This then attaches to "things and events" which, finally, is the object of "picture"

It is tempting to think of "beyond" as an adverb that goes directly with "picture" but I don't think that's quite right

Hope this helps, Dave

Taka · Answer

I forgot to say 'Thanks', Dave. Your comment was very helpful!

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