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Thread: modal auxiliaries are specialized towards the expression of certain speech act

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    Default modal auxiliaries are specialized towards the expression of certain speech act

    From the semantic point of view, modal auxiliaries are often specialized
    towards the expression of certain speech acts
    ; eg giving advice (ought to,
    should), making promises or threats (will), giving orders (must, can), etc.


    (A Comprehensive Grammar of the English Language)

    Have I understood the part in bold?

    Certain speech acts can be expressed through modal auxiliaries.

    Thanks.

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    Tdol is online now Editor, UsingEnglish.com
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    Default Re: modal auxiliaries are specialized towards the expression of certain speech act

    Yes, though I'd reverse the order:
    Modal auxiliaries can express certain speech acts.
    suprunp likes this.

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