Indicating obligation and willingness
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Using semi-modal verbs to indicate obligation | page 2 of 5 |
Degrees of obligation
Note that different semi-modals 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 You have to ... 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 You had better ... 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 You don't have to ... This level can be glossed as permission. |
Introduction
Degrees of obligation
