THE SEMANTICS OF MODAL AUXILIARY VERBS IN THE 2018 SECOND TERM INAUGURAL SPEECH OF GOVERNOR WILLIE OBIANO IN ANAMBRA STATE

Abstract

The study explores the semantics of modal auxiliary verbs in the 2018 Second Term Inaugural Speech of Governor Willie Obiano in Anambra State. The objectives of the study are to identify the modal auxiliary verbs that are frequently used in the second term inaugural speech of Governor Willie Obiano and to identify how the semantic meanings of these modal auxiliary verbs have contributed to the overall message conveyed in the inaugural speech. The design of the study was both quantitative and qualitative. The study reveals that modals such as will, shall, must, can, would, among others were used by the Governor in his second term inaugural speech to make promises, declare his intentions, prove theoretical possibility, demonstrate political will/commitment, solicit for further support and solidarity and emphasize the obligation before him and the people of Anambra State to do things right. Thus,‘will’ is the most preponderantly used modal verb in the speech representing 35.6% of the total number of modals.This reinforces Quirk et al.’s (55) stance that ‘will’ indicates intention or promise. It can be considered intentional and strategic given that by bombarding the people with a lot of realistic promises, a political leader is likely to be given full support and acceptance by the people. Significantly, this paper provides semantic insight into the peculiar uses of modals in political speeches and affirms positively that modals are not just linguistic elements, but most importantly ideological tools used for persuasion in political discourse.