[Grammar] Deontic and Epistemic Modality

[starry_eyes]

Hello!
I'm writing in this forum 'cause I can't understand when a modality(deontic or epistemic) of a verb is not realized!
In the mock exam my teacher wrote that in sentences like:
1)The men,wearing anoraks and hats,made off in a stolen Volvo estate
2) The prime minister is being encouraged to sack the Health Minister
the modality of that verbs (underlined) is NOT realized! Why? I can't understand!
Is there someone who can help me,please? Next week I'll have the exam..I need somebody help me! Thanks : )

 

[philo2009]

In normal parlance, the terms 'epistemic modality' and 'deontic modality' refer exclusively to modal verbs (can, must, etc.) I can therefore see no real relevance to the sentences you cite, since they contain none.

Have you perhaps misunderstood your teacher's comments?