The German modal particle wohl between epistemics and evidentiality – An interactional and regional perspective

Abstract

In this paper, we apply a mixed-methods approach on epistemics and evidence in interaction to the investigation of the unstressed German modal particle wohl and its different functions as a linguistic resource for displaying knowledge in interaction. In addition, the paper takes a regional perspective based on the observation that speakers from the Northwest German area use wohl differently in constructing knowledge stances than speakers of other German varieties. Methodologically, we follow a combined approach of conversation analysis and multivariate statistical analyses of German Face-to-Face interactions. In contrast to traditional classifications of wohl displaying an assumptive [K–] stance, the results of the sequential analyses in the paper reveal that the modal particle is used to display all functions of the epistemic gradient from a [K–] to a [K+] stance. Moreover, the quantitative analysis shows that there is a regional effect, as primarily Northwestern German speakers use the epistemic [K+] function of wohl in interactions. We discuss the results with regard to the role that interaction analysis and regionality should play in investigating modal particles. Finally, we link our findings to the historical and contact induced factors that especially determine the divergent usage of wohl in the Northwestern area.