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Possibility Modal Verbs in Learner Academic Discourse: Insights from Czech Learners of English

Authors: Huschová Petra

Year: 2025

Type of publication: ostatní - přednáška nebo poster

Page from-to: nestránkováno

Titles:

Language	Name	Abstract	Keywords
eng	Possibility Modal Verbs in Learner Academic Discourse: Insights from Czech Learners of English	This paper investigates the occurrence and usage of modal verbs expressing possibility in academic discourse produced by Czech EFL graduates. Through an analysis of discussion sections of selected Bachelor’s and Master’s theses, the research aims to explore the distribution and patterns in the use of the key modal verbs which convey possibility and tentativeness (can, could, may, and might). The prevalent patterns identified are compared to those found in native English academic discourse, highlighting both similarities and differences. The findings reveal that the examined modal verbs are predominantly used in their root possibility meanings to present alternative possibilities, with a substantial proportion occurring in passive constructions. In contrast, epistemic readings of 'may/might', which signal subjective evaluation, seem to be underused by Czech learners. The results also offer insights into challenges encountered by Czech EFL students in employing modal verbs to qualify their statements in academic writing.	modal verbs; possibility meanings; learner academic discourse; Czech learners of English