Oswald revisited: the effect of focus and context

Abstract In this paper, we will present an analysis of the Oswald example (‘If did not shot Kennedy, then somebody else did’/‘If had would have’) that takes a closer look at antecedents minimal pair. We argue diverging foci in result different truth conditions conditionals, explaining difference values between two sentences. Although explanation incorporate aspects Stalnaker’s theory it go beyond on one crucial point. The focus assignments sentences be explained by appropriateness indicative and subjunctive mood. Instead, stem from pragmatic requirements imposed presuppositions antecedents. This further confirmed extending to similar examples with ascriptions hopes wishes, pointing towards more clear-cut separation conditionality effect example.