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Description:
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Modality: Studies in Form and Function reflects the diversity of
theoretical frameworks and the heterogeneity of linguistic phenomena under
the general heading of modality. Researchers in the fields of logic,
philosophy and linguistics have for many years been pondering the elusive
nature of modality and grappled with ways of capturing it. The 11 studies
included here cover the span from contributions that seek to clarify
controversial theoretical constructs to studies which take an empirical
approach to linguistic categories and cross-linguistic typological issues.
The key concepts addressed are the structure of modal subcategories,
subjective vs. objective modality, force dynamics, evidentiality, Spanish
and English modal auxiliaries, modal uses of Italian tenses, linearization
patterns in German verb chains, determinant TAM categories, modal
polyfunctionality across languages and rapport management in discourse.
This volume raises new questions and offers re-examination of known
phenomena which should provide interesting reading to linguists and
students of linguistics of all theoretical persuasions.
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