In linguistics, in the study of syntax, an empty category is a nominal element that does not have any phonological content and is therefore unpronounced; they may also be referred to as covert nouns, in contrast to overt nouns which are pronounced.
An empty category is a nominal element. This is in the study of syntax. This is in linguistics. This nominal element does not have any phonological content. This nominal element is therefore unpronounced. They may also be referred to as covert nouns. This was in contrast to overt nouns. This was in linguistics. These nouns are pronounced.