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Modal Auxiliaries:: Definition, Usage, and Characteristics
Modal Auxiliaries:: Definition, Usage, and Characteristics
Arranged by Aswarini S.
Definition
• MODAL AUXILIARIES are those helping verbs, which express the ‘mode’ or
‘manner’ of the actions of the main verbs.
• They express modes such as ability, possibility, probability, permission, obligation, etc.
• Modals include:
Usage
Modals are used to:
6. Express prohibition
Example: You must not talk loudly in the library.
Usage
Modals are used to:
8. Express a wish—may
Example: May you have a long life!
Characteristics
Characteristics Examples
4. Modals, when joined with ‘not’ to form a • I cannot run. I can’t run.
negative, can be contracted. • I will not run. I won’t run.
Exercise
Fill in the blanks in the following sentences by using appropriate modals.
1. __________ you please tell me the direction to the hotel?
2. You __________ pay in cash. They do not accept credit cards.
3. I __________ come home from the office today.
4. __________ I help you?
5. You __________ clean your room.
6. We ________ keep the lights and fans switched off when they are not in use.
7. We __________ improve the existing education system.
8. __________ you have a wonderful day!
9. __________ go to see the movie. The reviews are good.
10. __________ definitely be at the airport to receive you.
References
1. Pearson Longman – Modals
2. Cliff’s for TOEFL Preparation Guide
Thanks!
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