Functions of Modal auxiliary verbs

 

Modal auxiliary verbs, also known as modals or modal verbs, are a category of auxiliary verbs used to express the attitude, necessity, ability, possibility, permission, or probability of the main verb in a sentence. They add shades of meaning to the main verb and indicate the speaker's viewpoint regarding the action or state described. Here are some common modal auxiliary verbs and their functions:

 

 

 1. Can:

   - Function: Indicates ability, permission, or possibility.

   - Examples:

     1. She can play the piano.

     2. Can I borrow your book?

     3. It can get quite hot in the summer.

 

 2. Could:

   - Function: Past tense of "can," used for politeness or expressing a past ability or possibility.

   - Examples:

     1. I could swim when I was younger.

     2. Could you please pass me the salt?

     3. He said he could come to the meeting.

 

 3. Will:

   - Function: Indicates future action, willingness, or prediction.

   - Examples:

     1. She will finish the project by tomorrow.

     2. I will help you with the move.

     3. It will rain later in the day.

 

4. Would:

   - Function: Used to express politeness, make requests, or talk about hypothetical situations.

   - Examples:

     1. Would you like some coffee?

     2. He said he would call me later.

     3. If I had more time, I would travel.

 

 5. Shall:

   - Function: Primarily used to express a suggestion, offer, or intention.

   - Examples:

     1. Shall we go for a walk?

     2. I shall inform the team about the decision.

     3. Shall I help you with your bags?

 

 6. Should:

   - Function: Indicates advice, obligation, or a recommendation.

   - Examples:

     1. You should eat more vegetables.

     2. We should start the meeting on time.

     3. Should I call you later?

 

 7. May:

   - Function: Indicates permission, possibility, or a polite request.

   - Examples:

     1. May I use your computer?

     2. It may rain this evening.

     3. You may leave the room.

 

8. Might:

   - Function: Similar to "may," often used to express a smaller degree of possibility.

   - Examples:

     1. I might come to the party.

     2. It might snow tomorrow.

     3. She might know the answer.

 

 9. Must:

   - Function: Expresses strong necessity, obligation, or a deduction.

   - Examples:

     1. You must finish your homework before going out.

     2. It must be your umbrella; I found it in the office.

     3. We must be at the airport by 8 AM.

 

 10. Ought to:

    - Function: Indicates a moral obligation or duty.

    - Examples:

      1. You ought to apologize for your mistake.

      2. We ought to respect our elders.

      3. She ought to attend the meeting.