Abstract
This article provides a comparative analysis of the linguistic means that form the modal meaning of "uncertainty" at the level of structural and functional grammar. Structural grammar examines the functions of linguistic means expressing the nuance of "uncertainty" within independent sentences, determining that at this level, they perform a unidirectional, stable function. Functional grammar identifies the modal meaning of "uncertainty" at the interphrasal and contextual levels, supported by specific examples. In this case, it is demonstrated that the modes of expression are flexible and changeable, and the reasons for this are revealed. The formation of their multifaceted function is determined by the influence of the semantic space of the text, the pragmatic function of linguistic means, and cognitive motivation. This makes it possible to consider the complex structure of modality in relation to other phenomena and determine the multifunctionality of linguistic means. The structure of the modality "uncertainty," identified from several syntactically related units, represents a complex system with deep semantic connections that requires analysis within context, between sentences, and at the intercontextual level. The functional aspect of this paper describes declarative and interrogative sentences, proverbs and sayings used with hidden meanings, as well as complex structures in the function of analogous comparisons—all of which perform the same function and fall within the scope of the modal meaning of "uncertainty." The multifunctionality of addresses, introductory and interjectional words used to express nuances of uncertainty is also comparatively substantiated. As a result, conclusions are drawn that help confirm the categorical independence of subjective modality.