Modal Verb Uses and Examples in Sentences.
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What is a Modal Verb?
A Modal Verb is an auxiliary verb that is used along with main verbs to contextually
indicate a modality such as likelihood, ability, permission, request, capacity
suggestion, order, obligation, necessity, possibility or advice. In simple words, a
modal verb is used alongside the main verb to express ideas such as the possibility,
intention, or necessity of a subject to do an action. Some of the common examples
include can, could, might, etc.
Modal verb vs Helping Verb
At this point, you might be thinking about how Modal Verbs are different from Help
Verbs. Well, to simplify things, you can think of it as all Modal Verbs are Helping verbs.
Helping verbs does not alter the meaning of the main verb but only assists the main
verb in forming tense, mood, and voice.
Difference Between Modal Verbs and Helping Verbs.
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Modal verbs
Modifies the meaning of the main
verb depending on the context
Do not have their own specific
meaning.
Followed by the base form
(infinitive).
Examples – Might, Must, Shall,
Should, etc....
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Helping verbs
Assists the main verb in forming
various verb tenses, moods, and
voices.
May have their own meaning and
can also function as the main verb.
Can be followed by base form,
present participle, or past
participle.
Examples – be, have, do, etc.
Types of Modal Verbs
The Modal Verbs are used to express various situations, such as attitudes, possibilities,
obligations, permission, and more. They are combined with the main verb depending on
the context to convey meaning. There are a total of nine primary modal verbs in English.
Many say there are ten modal verbs too. Here are all of them.
Can
Could
Shall Should
Will
Would
May
Might
must
ought to
Can and Could
“Can” and “Could” are used to express ability, possibility, and permission. Depending on
the context and how you use it alongside the main verb, it can modify the meaning.
May and Might
“May” and “might” are used to indicate permission, possibility, or uncertainty.
Must
“Must” expresses a strong obligation. Example – You must come to my party.
Will and Would
“Will” and “Would” are used to indicate future actions, intentions or preferences.
Shall
“Shall” is used mainly in formal contexts for suggestions or offers.
Should
“Should” is used to give advice, make recommendations, or express obligation.