Lesson 2: Other Uses of Modal Verbs
This lesson explores advanced and lesser-known uses of modal verbs in the English language.
About this lesson
In this lesson, we take an in-depth look at the many ways modal verbs such as 'may', 'might', 'must', 'should', 'can', and 'could' can be used beyond their core functions. You will discover subtle shades of meaning and how these verbs express far more than simple possibility or obligation. You will learn to apply them in more complex contexts to take your language skills to the next level.
40 minutes
What you'll learn
- Understand and use modal verbs to express assumptions and deductions.
- Distinguish the fine differences between 'may', 'might', and 'could' when talking about possibilities in the past, present, and future.
- Use modal verbs to give advice, make recommendations, and express reproach in a variety of situations.
- Apply modal verbs within more complex grammatical structures.
- Improve your overall accuracy and richness of expression when using modal verbs.
Lesson vocabulary
- Assumption We made an assumption that the project would be delayed.
- Certitude He spoke with complete certitude about his plans.
- Conditional Her agreement is conditional on our full support.
- Implication The implication of his statement was clear.
- Liability The company has a liability for environmental damage.
- Permissible Is it permissible to park here?
- Probability There's a high probability of rain tomorrow.
- Requirement Good communication is a key requirement for this role.
- Sanction The council gave its sanction to the new building project.
- Urgency The matter was treated with great urgency.
- Constraint Time is a major constraint on this project.
- Mandatory Wearing helmets is mandatory on construction sites.
- Optional Attendance at the meeting is optional.
- Prospective Prospective students visited the campus.
- Contingent Our success is contingent upon your decision.
- Obligatory It's obligatory to wear a seatbelt.
- Prudence He showed great prudence in managing his finances.
- Likelihood There is a strong likelihood of a price increase.