Modal verbs add meaning to the main verb in a sentence by expressing possibility, ability, permission, or obligation.
- You must turn in your assignment on time.
- He might be the love of my life.
- The doctor can see you now.
- The doctor can to see you now.
- The doctor ought to see you now. (You've waited long enough.)
What are the 10 Modals?
There are ten types of modal verbs: can, could, may, might, will, would, shall, should, must, ought to. Can (or cannot/can't) shows ability, in the sense of knowing how or being able to do something.
What are modals examples?
Modal verbs
Modal | Meaning | Example |
---|---|---|
may | to request permission | May I sit down, please? |
must | to express obligation | I must go now. |
must | to express strong belief | She must be over 90 years old. |
should | to give advice | You should stop smoking. |
What are the 13 Modals?
Modals are can, could, may, might, must, ought to, shall, should, will, would and need (need can also be a main verb).
What words are modal words?
These are verbs that indicate likelihood, ability, permission or obligation. Words like: can/could, may/might, will/would, shall/should and must.