Perfectivity might not scope over modality

Abstract

The present paper provides an account of the behaviour of the English modals with respect to theperfective aspect of their complement. The differences in reading (external vs. internal perfect) are argued tobe contingent on the structural position of the modal in syntax and on the availability of a polarity-changingconditionality feature on the modal.

Keywords

• modals
• perfective aspect
• external perfect
• internal perfect
• counter factuality