THE USE OF MODAL VERBS IN ENGLISH NOTARIAL DISCOURSE

Ezozkhon Ortikova

Authors

Ezozkhon Ortikova Author

Abstract

This study examines the functional-pragmatic role of modal verbs in English notarial discourse. By analyzing a corpus of 150 notarial documents from a variety of sources, including public records and notary offices, the study identifies patterns in the use of modal verbs and their implications for the authority, obligation, and certainty conveyed in notarial communications. Qualitative content analysis and quantitative frequency analysis were used to examine the data. The results show that modal verbs such as “shall,” “must,” “may,” and “can” are used strategically to express legal obligations, permissions, and possibilities, contributing to the authoritative nature of notarial discourse. This study expands our understanding of legal-linguistic communication and has practical implications for notarial practice and teaching.

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