Read the following examples.
(1) May I join you in the conversation?
(2) He would often complain about his sorry state ofaffairs.
(3) I am sure you could solve the mystery.
(4) I will do my best.
The words underlined above are modal auxiliaries.
Defn: A modal is a verb that combines with another verb to express the mood of the verb.
Modals are used to express permission, possibility, certainty, wish, capability, obligation, order, polite request, etc.
Let us learn more about the different modals and their functions.
Also see to this for more understanding:
1. Can: It is used to express ability, permission, and possibility.
– She can swim.
– Can I go to the party?
– It can be difficult to understand.
2. Could: It is the past tense of “can” and can also express polite requests, past action/ability and suggestions.
– She could swim when she was five.
– I could help you with your homework.
3. May: It is used to express permission, possibility, or a wish.
– You may leave the classroom.
– It may rain later today.
– May your dreams come true.
4. Might: It is similar to “may” but often implies a lower probability/possibility.
– She might arrive late.
– He might not come to the party.
5. Must: It expresses necessity, obligation/compulsion, or strong probability/possibility.
– To stay healthy, you must consume a balanced diet and engage in regular exercise.
– You must complete your homework.
– He must be at the meeting.
6. Should: It is used to give advice, make suggestions, or express obligation.
– You should eat more vegetables.
– You should consider taking a break to recharge your energy.
– You should follow the instructions carefully and complete the task by the end of the day.
7. Ought to: Similar to “should,” it is used to express obligation, but it’s considered slightly more formal.
– You ought to apologize for your behavior.
8. Shall: It is used to express future actions, typically in questions, suggestions, or offers. In American English, “will” is often used instead.
– Shall we go to the movies?
– You shall consider attending the conference; it could greatly benefit your professional development.
– I shall assist you with any further inquiries you may have about our products.
9. Will: It is used to express future actions, make predictions, or state willingness.
– I will call you tomorrow.
– She will probably win the competition.
– I will help you with your project.
10. Would: It is often used to express polite requests, make suggestions, or talk about hypothetical situations.
– Would you pass the bread, please?
– I would suggest exploring new hobbies to add variety and excitement to your routine.
– If I were you, I would apologize.
11. Used to: While not a traditional modal verb, “used to” is used to express past habits or states.
– I used to play the piano.
– She used to live in New York.