Strategies and word order of modal possibility

This parameter considers the strategies and word order used to express modal possibility (Psbl), including the use of affixes and independent words. Basic intransitive[1] sentences should be considered.

Types:

NoPsbl: Possibility is expressed through clause-level strategies, rather than verbal modality.

NoMorfPsbl: Possibility is expressed by a strategy that does not rely on separate, identifiable morphemes.[2]

PrefPsbl: Possibility is expressed through the use of prefixes attaching to the verb stem.

InfPsbl: Possibility is expressed through the use of infixes inserted into the verb stem.

SuffPsbl: Possibility is expressed through the use of suffixes attaching to the verb stem.

CrcfPsbl:  Possibility is expressed through the use of circumfixes attaching to the verb stem.

VPsbl: Possibility is expressed through the use of an independent word that appears (indirectly or directly) after the verb.

PsblV: Possibility is expressed through the use of an independent word that appears (indirectly or directly) before the verb.

When a language displays more than one strategy, multiple values can be listed, with the exception of NoPsbl. If one type of strategy is dominant, a slash (/) can separate the values, with the dominant value appearing first; if there is no dominant strategies, the values should be listed with an ampersand (&) separating the two.

 

[1] For example, consider verbs such as come, go, etc.

[2] This value includes the use of internal flexion and tone.