A semantic universal for modality

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Published: Jan 5, 2023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3765/sp.16.1
Keywords:
modals typology variable force variable flavor semantic universals

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Shane Steinert-Threlkeld
Department of Linguistics, University of Washington
http://orcid.org/0000-0001-8906-266X
Nathaniel Imel
Department of Linguistics, University of Washington
Qingxia Guo
Department of Linguistics, University of Washington

Abstract

This paper articulates a new semantic universal for modal expressions in natural language, dubbed the Independence of Force and Flavor (IFF). This property accommodates counterexamples to Nauze 2008’s proposed universal from variable-force variable-flavor modals (Bochnak 2015a,b) and attitude verbs (Močnik & Abramovitz 2019), while still ruling out unattested modals. It may also be seen as a form of convexity applied to modals.


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Article Details

Issue
Vol. 16 (2023)
Section
Squibs, Remarks, and Replies
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