Modal Verbs: Usage and Examples

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a primary function expressed by modal verbs?

Expressing ability
Showing necessity
Indicating past tense (correct)
Granting permission

Modal verbs change form depending on the subject of the sentence.

False (B)

What form of the main verb typically follows a modal verb?

infinitive without to

You __________ try the lasagna; it's delicious.

<p>should</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the modal verb with its most typical function:

<p>Can = Ability or possibility Must = Necessity or obligation Should = Suggestion or advice May = Permission or possibility</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What are modal verbs?

Auxiliary verbs expressing possibility, ability, necessity, or permission.

Common Modal Verbs

Can, may, might, could, should, would, will, and must.

Modal Verb + Main Verb

They are followed by the main verb's infinitive (without 'to').

Modal Verbs in Past Contexts

Forms like could, might, should, and would indicate hypothetical or past scenarios.

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Uses of Modal Verbs

In questions, suggestions, and expressing habits.

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Study Notes

Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express conditions like possibility, ability, necessity, and permission.
Common modal verbs: can, may, might, could, should, would, will, and must.
Less common modal verbs: shall and ought.
Modal verbs are followed by the main verb’s infinitive (without "to").
Modal verbs remain consistent across subjects.
In past contexts, could, might, should, and would indicate hypothetical or past scenarios.
Modal verbs are used in questions, suggestions, and to describe habits.

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Description

Explore modal verbs—auxiliary verbs expressing possibility, necessity, permission, etc. This material lists common modal verbs, their usage, and construction rules. Learn how these verbs function across different contexts.