Glossary of Linguistic Terms

Directive Modality

Definition: 

Directive modality is a deontic modality that connotes the speaker’s degree of requirement of conformity to the proposition expressed by an utterance.

Discussion: 

If the usage of the term directive modality is extended beyond discussion of solely grammaticalized means of expression, it becomes nearly synonymous with directive illocutionary point.

Examples: 

(English)

The imperative mood in Stop!

The modal auxiliary verbs may or can in You may/can go at four o’clock