ABSTRACT
Semantically defined clause functioning syntactically as a modal adverbial. Instrumental clauses describe the means by which the state of affairs expressed in the main clause is achieved, and are introduced by conjunctions such as by: By carefully dissolving the paint, the original portrait could be restored. ( also modal clause)
Designation for nouns (often derived from verbs) that denote the corresponding instrument: cleanser, humidifier. Frequently, there is an overlap between instrumental nouns and nominal agents ( nomen agentis) such that one must posit a vague -er suffix, cf. (record) player vs (football) player.
