The Asymmetry of Past Tense

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a semantics for (the highest instance) of past tense in a syntactic domain that is essentially modal and not strictly temporal. Given this asymmetry we are able to account for the fact that, once embedded under another modal, past tense morphology can receive a modal interpretation and is not an inherent time shifter. This naturally derives the syntax of counterfactual if- and wish clauses. Overgeneration of modal readings in other modal contexts is ruled out by means of pragmatic competition with present tense morphology.