On the order of operations in the box system

This article explores quasi-multiple clefts, where a DP/PP pivot always precedes an NP pivot. They are distinguished from multiple clefts by their fixed pivot word order. It is demonstrated that quasi-multiple clefts combine features of clefts and pseudoclefts in that the NP pivot is base-generated in Spec,CopP, but the DP/PP pivot moves from the VCC to Spec,CopP. I address the properties of quasi-multiple clefts by proposing theoretical aspects that Chomsky’s (2023) box system does not cover, thereby filling the gaps left by that system. I propose that the order of operations is reflected in the word order. I also claim that structurally identical elements in a cc-configuration are interpreted as copies, regardless of whether the highest copy is an EMed element or is pronounced as a result of Externalization followed by a phase head’s access to a box for instructions. Furthermore, multiple elements in the box are accessed collectively by a phase head, rather than individually. This can explain the free ride effect observed in quasi-multiple clefts.