Abstract: At first, this thesis mainly reports a pragmatic analysis of modal verbs “shall” used in English Business Contracts. A detailed study about the pragmatic function and meaning of “shall” is made. Then, a pragmatic analysis of modal verb “must”, “may”, “should” and “will” is continuously conducted. During the exploration, a contrast between these modal verbs and “shall” is investigated. Its aim is to find out the differences of usage between one of these modal verbs and “shall” when they express the similar pragmatic meaning. Finally, a discussion of the usage problems of “shall” in contract is made, and several solutions are put forward that may be adopted during the process of draft in the future. A point is summarized that the pragmatic meaning of “shall” in contract must keep consistency. All these clarify the importance of comprehending the modal verb accurately for stating the contract’s contents, conveying both parties’ wills, as well as avoiding unnecessary legal disputes.

Key words: English business contract; modal verbs; pragmatic analysis

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction1

2. Pragmatic Analysis of “Shall”....2

2.1 The Pragmatic Function of “Shall”

2.2 The Pragmatic Meaning of “Shall” 

3 Pragmatic Analysis of Other Modal Verbs..5

3.1 Modal Verb “must”

3.2 Modal Verb “should”

3.3 Modal Verb “may”

3.4 Modal Verb “will”

4. Some Problems of the Usage of “Shall”8

5. Solutions Proposed to Solve the Problem10

6. Conclusion11

Bibliography.12

Acknowledgements..13