(Non)veridicality, evaluation, and event actualization: evidence from the subjunctive in relative clauses

In this paper, we study the subjunctive relative clause as a means to understand the relation between (non)veridicality, existence and event actualization. I argue that the subjunctive in the relative clause carries a presupposition of epistemic uncertainty as to the existence of a referent for the modified NP. This uncertainty can only be satisfied in non-veridical contexts, hence the distribution of the subjunctive relative clause only in these contexts. The use of the subjunctive in the relative clause correlates with other optional uses of the subjunctive where the subjunctive contributes nonveridical evaluation. In terms of event actualization, we find that veridicality and nonveridicality capture the behavior of aspectual operators such as the progressive, the perfective, and the meaning of TRY. If an operator imposes knowledge of at least partial actualization of an event, it is veridical. I call this ACTUAL operator, and the progressive and the perfective are such. But intentional verbs like TRY are nonveridical: they allow a stage of pure intention in their truth condition, and do not necessitate even minimal actualization.