
What Are Modal Verbs? Definition and Examples
Jan 22, 2025 · Modal verbs show possibility, intent, ability, or necessity. Common examples of modal verbs include can, should, and must. Because they’re a type of auxiliary verb (helper …
Modal Verbs: A Complete Grammar Guide about Modal Verb
Jul 16, 2025 · Modal verbs are verbs that act very differently from verbs like ‘work’, ‘play’, or ‘eat’. Modal verbs provide information about the function of the verb that follows.
What Is a Modal Verb? | Definition & Examples - Scribbr
Feb 14, 2023 · A modal verb (also called a modal auxiliary verb) is used along with a main verb to express possibility, ability, permission, or necessity. For example, in the statement “you must …
Modal Verbs Explained: Definition, Types, Usage & Examples
Aug 6, 2025 · Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that add nuances of meaning to the main verb in a sentence. Mastering modal verbs is crucial for expressing possibility, necessity, permission, …
What is a Modal Verb? English Modal Verbs List - Writing …
A modal verb is a helping (auxiliary) verb that expresses ability, possibility, permission, or obligation. The modal verb must be used in a verb phrase. A verb phrase is more than one …
Modal Verbs in English - Grammar Monster
What Are Modal Verbs? The main modal verbs are "can," "could," "may," "might," "shall," "should," "will," "would," and "must." Modal verbs (or modal auxiliary verbs) express modality. …
Definition and Examples of a Modal in English - ThoughtCo
May 4, 2025 · Modal verbs help show moods or tense, like needing, guessing, or asking for permission. Pure modals like 'can' and 'should' don't change for subject or tense and express …
MODAL VERB Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
What is a modal verb? A small group of auxiliary verbs, called the modal verbs (or modal auxiliary verbs, modal auxiliaries, or simply modals) are only used in combination with ordinary verbs. A …
Modal verbs - LearnEnglish - British Council
Nov 1, 2025 · The modal verbs are: We use modals to show if we believe something is certain, possible or impossible: My keys must be in the car. It might rain tomorrow. That can't be …
Modal Verbs in English: Usage & Examples - ESL Forums
Sep 19, 2025 · Modal verbs are a unique group of auxiliary verbs that we typically use to express notions like ability, possibility, permission, and obligation. Unlike regular verbs, modals attach …