Double Modals in Najdi Arabic

Authors

  • Mohammad A Alsamaani

    Department of English Language and Literature, College of Languages and Humanities, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i4.8899
Received: 27 February 2025 | Revised: 25 March 2025 | Accepted: 26 March 2025 | Published Online: 3 April 2025

Abstract

In contrast to constructions with single modals, the double-modal pattern is known to be a rare syntactic process. This investigation examines the use of double modals (DMs) in the Buraydawi variety of Najdi Arabic (BNA). Previous studies state that Standard Arabic (SA) modals are in two categories: modals and semi-modals. Yet, only some of the modals suggested are actively used in BNA. Whereas modals are prohibited from co-occurring in SA, BNA demonstrates a great degree of flexibility in this regard. Unlike DMs in some languages, as were thoroughly discussed in the literature, DMs in BNA can exhibit flexible reordering. This switch of modals has prompted some linguists to consider revisiting earlier analyses of DMs. I propose that in BNA, two modal phrases (MPs) project higher than the tense phrase (TP). While MP1 in the tree diagram is occupied by the first modal, MP2 is the maximal projection for the second modal. After the DMs switch places, each modal occupies the landing site of the other in the syntactic tree. Furthermore, if ɡdar ‘could’ is categorized as a modal, as some linguists have proposed, BNA would be able to build a three-way construction of modality.

Keywords:

Double Modals; Najdi Arabic; Syntax; Theoretical Study

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How to Cite

Alsamaani, M. A. (2025). Double Modals in Najdi Arabic. Forum for Linguistic Studies, 7(4), 337–352. https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i4.8899

Issue

Vol. 7 , Iss. 4 (April 2025): In Progress

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Article

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Copyright © 2025 Mohammad A Alsamaani

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