Language Science Lunch Talk: Valentine Hacquard (LING)

The Role of Grammar and Context in the Interpretation of Modals

Abstract: The same modal words (must, have to) can be used to express different ‘flavors’ of modality: "Jeff has to lift weights" can express that Jeff is a likely weightlifter or that Jeff needs to lift weights. This multi-flavorness can be found in modals of many languages across the world. Cross-linguistically, modals further tend to interact differently with elements like tense depending on their flavor. In my (2010) paper, I proposed an account of modals that tried to make sense of these tendencies. In this talk I’ll discuss the empirical and theoretical questions that motivated this account, and the way I see the problem and its solution now. 

Lunch served at 12:15 PM. Vegetarian options availalble. Let us know if you have other dietary restrictions!