Introduction: All the auxiliary verbs except be, do and have are called modals. Unlike other auxiliary verbs, modals only exist in their helping form; they cannot act alone as the main verb in a sentence.
The modal verbs are: Can, Could, May, Might, Must, Shall, Should, Ought to, Will, Would
Uses of Modal Verbs
Model | Example | Use |
Can | They can control own budgets. | Ability/possibility /inability /impossibility asking for permission request |
Could | Could I borrow your dictionary? | Asking for permission |
May | May I have another cup of coffee? | Asking for permission |
Might | We'd better phone tomorrow, they might be eating their dinner now | Present possibility |
Must | We must say good bye now. | Necessity / Obligation |
Ought to | We ought to employ a professional writer. | Saying what's right or correct |
Shall | Shall I help you with your luggage? | Offer |
Should | We should short out this problem at once. | Saying what's right or correct recommending action uncertain prediction |
Will | I can't see any taxis so I'// walk. | Instant decisions |
Would | Would you mind if I brought a colleague with me? | Asking for permission |
Modals express the mood a verb, such as ability, possibility, necessity, or another condition. They are used with a main verb to form a sentence or a question. Models are not conjugated, have no tense, and cannot be used without a main verb.
When used with modal verbs (except ought), main verbs always remain in the Infinitive with out to.
1. What are modals in English grammar? |
2. Can you provide some examples of modals in sentences? |
3. How are modals different from regular verbs? |
4. Can modals be used in all tenses? |
5. What is the importance of using modals in English? |
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