Perfectivity might not scope over modality

Abstract

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

Keywords

• modals
• perfective aspect
• external perfect
• internal perfect
• counterfactuality