Definition

Referring to something that is not related to or does not involve modality, which is the way in which something can be expressed or understood in terms of possibility, necessity, or permission.

Example

The nonmodal approach to the problem allowed for a more straightforward solution.

Conversation

I was reading about grammar rules, and I came across the term nonmodal.

Oh really? What does it mean exactly?

It refers to verbs that aren't modal, like 'run' or 'jump'.

Got it! So those verbs are considered nonmodal because they don’t express possibility.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonmodal → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "modal" (from Latin "modus", meaning manner or mode). The word "nonmodal" refers to something that is not related to or does not conform to a particular mode or manner.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') related to a specific 'manner' ('modal') — that's why nonmodal means not pertaining to a certain mode.

Visually Confused Words