All about Modals (auxiliary verb):
Modal verb: An
auxiliary verb used to indicate modality – that is, likelihood, ability, permission,
and obligation. Modal auxiliary verbs give more information about the function
of the main verb that follows it.
Modals can be analyzed as
raising verbs and control verbs. Another use of modal auxiliaries refers to
properties such as ability or disposition. Some examples of this are
"can" in English.
For example, "I can do that piece of work”.
The follows propositions
being true or not true (including likelihood, and certainty); and concerned
with possibility and necessity in terms of freedom to act (including ability,
permission, and duty)
The following sentences
illustrate the two uses of must:
- You must be tiered. (e.g., "It is necessarily the case that you are tiered.")
- You must slow down the car. (e.g., "You are required to move slowly now.")
- You must speak English. (e.g., English is a necessary language here)
- "It is surely the case that you speak Spanish (after having lived in Spain for ten years)."
- "It is a requirement that you speak Spanish (if you want to get a job in Spain)."
1. Can, could and (be) able to
2. Could (do) and Could have (done)
3. Must and Can’t
4. May and Might
5. Must and have (to)
6. Must, Mustn’t and needn’t
7. Should
8. Had Better (It’s time)
9. Can, could and would you
