\(\it Wieder\) als Modalpartikel
- This paper argues that \(\it wieder\) ("again") can be used in \(\it wh\)-questions as a modal particle. This use derives from the use of \(\it wieder\) as a temporal adverb, due to grammaticalization, in accordance with Traugott's hypothesis of a semantic-pragmatic tendency for meanings to become increasingly situated in the speaker's belief-state or attitude toward the situation. By using \(\it wieder\) as a modal particle, the speaker can indicate that s/he knew the answer to the question previously but is at present not aware of it.
It is shown that several other temporal adverbs, such as \(\it noch\) ("still") and \(\it gleich\) ("soon"), may serve as modal particles in questions, with a function very similar to that of \(\it wieder\). This is due to semantic bleaching, a concomitant of grammaticalization, which neutralizes the differences in lexical semantics between these elements. These modal particles indicate that the answer to the question is part of the speaker and recipient's common ground, but not activated at the moment in the speaker's and/or the hearer's consciousness.
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