ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the most relevant theoretical issues regarding the distribution of copular verbs and their implications for acquisition. It analyzes the semantic features that are more difficult to map into the copulas and describes the linguistically-based developmental paths these constitute. The chapter reviews mostly two types of second language acquisition processes: that in which the learner comes with a unique-copula system and acquires a binary system, such as English or Italian to Spanish; and that in which the learner acquires a non-omitting copular system, such as from Russian or Arabic to English. The copula is also investigated as an agreement marker.
