The College of Basic Education at the University of Mosul discussed a master’s thesis entitled *”The Interface between Semantics and Pragmatics in Analyzing Modal Verbs in English and Arabic Novels: A Contrastive Study”* on Sunday, 21 June 2026, in Umm Al-Rabieen Hall at the College.

The thesis, submitted by Huda Fathi Hussein from the Department of English, aimed to investigate the interface between semantics and pragmatics in the analysis of modal verbs in English and Arabic novels. It also sought to identify the similarities and differences between the two languages in interpreting modal verbs and to demonstrate the role of linguistic and pragmatic context in determining their meanings and functions.

The study addressed several key areas, including the theoretical framework of semantics, pragmatics, and modal verbs; the analysis of modal verbs in English and Arabic novels; the relationship between semantic meaning and pragmatic interpretation; and a contrastive analysis highlighting the similarities and differences between the two languages in the use and interpretation of modal verbs.

The findings revealed that the interpretation of modal verbs depends not only on their semantic meaning but is also significantly influenced by the pragmatic context. The study further showed that, despite notable similarities and differences between English and Arabic in expressing modality, both languages demonstrate flexibility and precision in conveying meaning.

The examination committee was chaired by Professor Dr. Abdulrahman Ahmed, with Assistant Professor Dr. Lubna Zuhair Mahmoud and Lecturer Dr. Afrah Abdulqader Jasim serving as members. Assistant Professor Dr. Omar Dawood Omar served as both a committee member and the thesis supervisor.

**Media and Government Communication Division**