Semantic Modality in Angkola Language: A Pragmatic-Semantic Analysis of Epistemic and Deontic Expressions

This study explores the semantic and pragmatic dimensions of epistemic and deontic modality in the Angkola language, a regional variety spoken in South Tapanuli, Indonesia. Drawing on the theoretical frameworks of Palmer, Halliday, and Brown & Levinson, the research identifies key modal expressions—bope (possibility), adong (certainty), songonna (inference), unang (prohibition), bole (permission), and harus (obligation)—and analyzes their functions in natural discourse. The findings show that epistemic modality is employed to express varying degrees of belief and to mitigate speaker commitment, while deontic modality encodes social norms, authority, and culturally embedded obligations. Modal expressions in Angkola are also strategically used in politeness management, enabling speakers to adjust modal strength according to social status, context, and relational goals. Furthermore, modality serves as a reflection of core cultural values such as deference, social harmony, and the Dalihan Na Tolu system. By uncovering how modality indexes interpersonal and cultural meaning, this study contributes to the semantic-pragmatic analysis of under-documented languages and enhances understanding of the interface between grammar and culture.