What are modals?
Modals are auxiliary verbs that modify the meaning of the main verb, expressing certainty, possibility, necessity, permission, ability, or obligation. Characteristics of modal verbs: 1. Fixed Forms: Do not take “-s,” “-ed,” or “-ing” endings (e.g., can, not canned). 2. Followed by Bare Infinitives: Use the base verb without "to" (e.g., I should go).
Uses of Can: 1. Ability: I can ride a bike. 2. Possibility: The work can be done tomorrow. 3. Permission: Can I leave early? 4. Requests: *Can you help me, please?
D. Uses of Could: 1. Past Ability: He could swim when he was younger. 2. Possibility: It could rain tonight. 3. Permission: Could I borrow your book? 4. Requests: Could you pass the salt? 5. Suggestions: *We could try another option.
E. Uses of Will: 1. Intention: I will call you later. 2. Request: Will you open the door? 3. Future Actions: It will snow tomorrow. 4. Promise: I will always support you.
Uses of Would: 1. Requests: Would you help me? 2. Offers: I would be glad to assist. 3. Permission: *Would you mind if I join?
G. Uses of May: 1. Permission: May I leave now? 2. Possibility: She may attend the meeting. 3. Requests: May I have your attention? 4. Offers: May I help you? 5. Wishes: *May you achieve success!
H. Uses of Might: 1. Permission: Might I join later? 2. Possibility: We might miss the train.
I. Uses of Shall: 1. Intention: I shall do my best. 2. Offers: Shall I carry your bag? 3. Suggestions: Shall we plan a trip?
J. Uses of Should: 1. Possibility: This should work fine. 2. Obligation: You should obey the rules. 3. Advice: *You should study regularly.
K. Uses of Must: 1. Inference: He must be tired after the journey. 2. Obligation: You must submit your homework.
Semi-modals function partly like modal verbs and partly like main verbs. Examples: need, dare, ought to.
Uses of Ought To: 1. Obligation: You ought to complete your homework. 2. Expectation: He ought to arrive soon.
Uses of Had Better: - Advice for Past Actions: You had better study next time.
Uses of Used To: - Past Habits or Facts: I used to play football.
Uses of Going To: - Future Plans: I am going to travel tomorrow.
Uses of Need: - Necessity: You needn't worry.
Uses of Dare: 1. Courage/Risk: If he dare argue with me, I'll leave. 2. Negative Statements: I dare not disobey. 3. Questions: Dare he challenge the rules?
