On Root Modality Predicates and their Radical Clausal Desires

Abstract:In Modern Hebrew some root modality predicates which express volition, obligation and need show a phenomenon which is known in the cross-linguistic literature as 'subject obviation' – a requirement of predicates such as 'want' for disjoint reference between the matrix subject and a pronominal subject of a subordinate clause. This paper approaches the phenomenon from a diachronic perspective and examines the clausal complement requirements of 'want' in Classical Hebrew and their developments. In light of the historical data presented, this work suggests understanding the synchronic disjoint reference construction as a coerced clause with the extended meaning of a wish or request for root modal predicates, and proposes that their core complement is non-finite and coreferential and is strongly associated with intent.