Terminology and Development of Modal Intensity Modification

This paper examines terminological, theoretical, and functional issues related to the modal modification of intensity as one of the central dimensions of modality in language, which lies at the intersection of semantics, pragmatics, and discourse studies. Drawing on Slovenian and broader international linguistic terminology, it analyzes the relationship between a proposition and its modifications, the development of the concept of modality, and the place of gradation in contemporary semantic-pragmatic and discourse approaches. Special attention is given to Toporišič’s description of the process of verbalization, theories of evaluation, and pragmatic theories of politeness. The paper demonstrates that intensity modification operates simultaneously at the propositional and modal levels and plays a crucial role in establishing power relations in discourse, particularly in the context of violent and non-violent speech.