Generally, a modal verb is an auxiliary verb that expresses necessity or possibility.
English modals include must, shall, will, should, would, can, could, may, and might.
It covers situations like likelihood, ability, permission, request, capacity, suggestion, order, obligation, necessity, possibility, or advice.
Exception
Some modals are used to make requests and offers.
subject + modal + verb
modal + subject + verb?”
Examples
My son would like a salad.
We would like to have fried chicken.
Would you like a glass of red wine?
Would you like to have a cup of tea and biscuits?
Can I have a slice of coconut cake, please?
Can you help me?
Key Component.
They subcategorize for an infinitive; that is, they take an infinitive as their complement.
Practical examples
- Possibility:
- She might come to the party later.
- They could win the competition if they practice more.
- Necessity:
- I must finish this report by tomorrow.
- You have to wear a helmet while riding a bike.
- Ability:
- He can play the piano very well.
- She could swim when she was just five years old.
- Permission:
- May I borrow your pen for a moment?
- You can use my computer if you need to.
- Requests:
- Could you please pass me the salt?
- Would you mind closing the window?
- Offers:
- Can I help you with your bags?
- Shall I book a table for us at the restaurant?
- Suggestions:
- You should try the new Italian restaurant in town.
- Might I suggest we take a short break?
- Obligation:
- Students must wear uniforms to school.
- Employees should arrive on time for the meeting.
- Probability:
- It may rain later, so bring an umbrella.
- They are likely to win the match with their strong team.
- Deduction:
- He’s been studying all day, so he must be prepared for the exam.
- She’s not answering her phone; she might be in a meeting.
Modal practical exercise
Use the following words to construct sentences
Must
Shall
Will
Should
Would
Can
Could
May
Might
Please go here for further studies about it compared to other verbs.
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