3. MODAL VERBS
What is a modal verb?
A modal verb is a type of helping
verb that is used to express ability,
possibility, permission, obligation,
wish, etc.
4. There are nine modal verbs. They are
• shall
• should
• will
• would
• may
• might
• can
• could
• must
5. 1. Can you lift this box?- [Ability]
2. You can enter the class.- [Permission]
3. Could I have your dictionary, please?
[Polite request]
4. You must do it. [Obligation]
5. May I come in, Sir?- [Permission]
6. 6. It may rain tomorrow.- [Possibility]
7. You should do it.- [Necessity]
8. I would like to play cricket.- [Wish]
9. Shall we go out?- [Suggestion]
10. I will pass the class test.- [Determination]
7. What is a semi-modal verb?
A semi-modal verb is a helping verb
that is used to express necessity,
obligation, formal negative action,
habitual action in the past, etc.
SEMI-MODALS OR MODAL PHRASES
8. There are four semi-modal verbs. They are
• ought
• need
• dare
• used
[ought to, used to]
9. 1. You need not come here.-[Negative
construction]
2. You dare not punish my child.- [Formal
negative action]
3. We ought to love our motherland.-
[Obligation]
4. I used to play kabaddi when I was young.-
[Habitual action in the past]
10. ASSIGNMENT
Fill in the blanks with suitable modal verbs or semi-
modal verbs.
1. We……respect our elders.
2. I …….punish you if you do it again.
3. How ……you punish my child?
4. You …….not wait for me.
5. ……..I open the window?
