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Uses of modals

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Why do we use modals?

                  • Using modal verbs allows speakers to convey their intentions and attitudes more clearly and effectively. For example, using "must" instead of "should" conveys a sense of necessity or obligation, while using "might" instead of "will" conveys a sense of possibility or uncertainty.

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What are modals ?

  • Definition: Modals are a type of auxiliary verb that are used to express possibility, necessity, permission, or probability.
  • Examples: can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, would

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Main modals

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Can could : Expressing possibility or ability

  • Example sentences :
  • I can speak Spanish.
  • It could rain later.

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May , Might

"May" is used to express a possibility or a permission in the present or future tense.

  • For example:
  • "I may go to the store later." (possibility)
  • "You may leave early if you want." (permission)

"Might" is used to express a possibility in the present, past, or future tense.

  • "She might be at the library." (possibility)
  • "I might have left my keys in the car." (possibility in the past)
  • "It might rain later." (possibility in the future)

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Shall , Should

"Shall" is used to express obligation or determination in the future tense.

  • For example :
  • "We shall arrive at 5pm." (determination)
  • "You shall do as I say." (obligation)

"Should" is used to express expectation, obligation, or advice in the present or future tense.

  • For example:
  • "We should arrive at 5pm." (expectation)
  • "You should do your homework." (advice)
  • "They should turn in their homework on time." (obligation)

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Will , Would

"Will" is used to express determination prediction and ask for help in the present or future tense.

  • For example:
  • "I will finish this project by tomorrow." (determination)
  • "Will you help me with this?" (request for help)
  • "It will rain later." (prediction)

"Would" is used to express determination in the past tense or probability in present or past .

  • For example:
  • “ I would finish this project by tomorrow, but I don't have enough time." (determination in the past)
  • "She would come to the party if she had time." (probability in the future)

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"must" is used to express a strong obligation or to express a logical conclusion in the present or future tense.

  • For example :
  • "You must finish this project by tomorrow." (obligation)
  • "She must be tired. She's been working all day." (logical conclusion)

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