The Semantics of English Modal Verbs: A Cognitive Linguistics Approach

This article explores the semantics of English modal verbs through the lens of cognitive linguistics. It examines how these verbs express various meanings related to possibility, necessity, and permission, highlighting the cognitive processes underlying their use. The study investigates the role of context, conceptual metaphors, and mental spaces in shaping the interpretation of modal verbs. By integrating insights from cognitive linguistics, the article offers a comprehensive understanding of how speakers use modal verbs to communicate nuanced meanings in everyday language.