Modal Verb 03162015 Modal Verb Type of auxiliary

Modal Verb 03/16/2015

Modal Verb Type of auxiliary verb (helping verb) that is used to indicate: ● Likelihood ● Ability ● Permission ● Obligation ● Request

Modal Verb Modal verbs have different levels of formality for request. Formal Would May Casual could Can

Modal Verb Modal verbs have different levels of certainty (how sure the speaker is of something). Sure (certain) can will must should Not so sure could would Maybe may

Would 1. Formal way to make a request mostly in writing Ex: Would you be able to write me a letter of recommendation 1. used to show likelihood and ability Ex: I would be able to go to the party, IF i finish writing my research paper (strong, but slightly weakened commitment or desire)

May 1. Formal way to ask for permission Ex: May I have tomorrow off. Permission is given Ex: You may have the day off tomorrow 1. likelihood of a situation Ex: Three of your friends are coming to your house. Somebody is knocking at the door but you are not sure who it is. “that may be drake”

Should 1. Obligation Ex: you should finish writing this paper today. (it was due yesterday and the teacher said he’ll take points off for late homework. 1. very certain Ex: your friend is coming to your house in the afternoon. It’s 4: 00 pm and somebody knocks at the door: “that should be drake”

Could 1. likelihood/possibility, making a suggestion Ex: you could finish the assignment today I could go to the pool today but…. . .

Can 1. casual form to make a request Ex: can i borrow your pen 1. ability (know how to) Ex: I can speak 10 languages

Must 1. strong authority Ex: you must finish this paper today (you have to finish it today) 1. strong belief/ very high certainty Ex: you must be happy you took this course ( you earned an A+ and the professor offered you a position in her lab)

Will 1. strong command/encouragement Ex: You will finish the paper today. Don’t worry, you will finish this paper today and then you will feel much better. 1. Very strong certainty Ex: I will pass all my classes this semester.