Indicating obligation and willingness
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Using adjectives to indicate obligation | page 2 of 6 |
Degrees of obligation
Note that different adjectives are typically used to express varying degrees of obligation (high, mid and low). The degree of obligation is a reflection of the amount of choice the hearer has.
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At the highest level, the hearer experiences strong obligation and
therefore has the least choice, eg It is compulsory ... This level can be
glossed as necessity (where the circumstances of the situation dictate the
necessary action  ). |
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The mid level is suggested obligation, and at this level the
hearer has more choice, eg It is advisable ... This level can be glossed as advice
and hints. |
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The bottom level is low obligation, and at this level the hearer has the greatest choice, eg It is acceptable ... This level can be glossed as permission. |
Introduction
Degrees of obligation
