Klecha, Peter. 2014. Modifying modality. In Jyoti Iyer and Leland Kusmer (eds.), Proceedings of NELS 44: Volume 2, pp. 219-232. GLSA.

Keywords. modality, modification, gradable modality

Abstract. This paper seeks to initiate serious inquiry into a category of expressions which I call modifiers of modal auxiliaries (MMAs), by examining a case study, the modifier easily. I argue that easily is a measure function over worlds, essentially a gradable accessibility relation. I provide a syntax in which the modal base is represented in the syntax as a covert pronoun; easily then combines with this pronoun by a generalized predicate modification rule to induce domain restriction.