English Dictionary

modal

/ˈməʊd.əl/

noun

(logic) A modal proposition. / (linguistics) A modal form, notably a modal auxiliary. / (grammar) A modal verb.

The modal proposition states that it is possible for the event to occur.

意味（1）

(logic) A modal proposition.

意味（2）

(linguistics) A modal form, notably a modal auxiliary.

意味（3）

(grammar) A modal verb.

Using the same type of distributional criterion, we could argue that only a Verb (in its base form) can occur in the position marked — in (23) below to complete the sentence:

(23) They/it can —

…

Conversely, the only type of word which could be used to begin a three-word sentence such as (25) below:

(25) — I be frank?

Using the same type of distributional criterion, we could argue that only a Verb (in its base form) can occur in the position marked — in (23) below to complete the sentence: (23) They/it can — … Conversely, the only type of word which could be used to begin a three-word sentence such as (25) below: (25) — I be frank? is a Modal: cf. …

意味（4）

(graphical user interface) A modal window, one that cannot be closed until a decision is made.

Modal screen elements are subtrees which, when activated, disable all elements external to them. Examples of modals are yes-no message boxes and the application itself.