Introduction to Modal Verbs

What are they?

Modal verbs are verbs that behave in a way which is different from other verbs. Modal verbs tell you more about the verb, but unlike an adverb a modal verb further describes how the verb relates to the rest of the sentence. To put it more simply, the modal verb gives you a reason as to why the verb is important.

What kind of importance does it describe?

There are all kinds of different modal verbs which describe all different kinds of importance. You might allow something with a modal verb, you might describe it as being unnecessary, or even make it someone's obligation. There’s countless more examples, and I think it’s time we moved on to some examples.

“You can’t have the last slice of pizza”

In this sentence, the main verb is have and the modal verb is can’t. We are denying this individual the right or ability to take the verb have and apply it to the object pizza.

“You should get your eyes checked.”

In this sentence there are multiple verbs, but the modal verb is should. When we say “get your eyes checked.” We’re talking about a visit to the eye doctor (optometrist) for an exam. When we use should, it’s a suggestion. We think that it would be wise for you to do this.

“When the light is red, you must stop.”

Here we have an example with traffic lights. Red means stop, it’s not a suggestion, it’s a demand.

Two more things to remember

• A modal verbs form doesn’t normally change, for example:
  
  

“You shouldn’t have let that bother you.”

Something happened in the past, but it’s not something that we can expect to upset you. This sentence is in the past tense, but it’s not the modal that tells us this.

• The verb after the modal actions like a gerund or an infinitive, but you don’t always add a “to” or “-ing.” For example,

“You could book an appointment with Dr. Karlson.”

In this example, you’ll notice that the booking isn’t happening now. It’s not implied that it’s happening in the future or in the past either. It’s just an idea at this point, like a gerund or an infinitive but we’re not using “-ing” or “to.”

New Vocabulary Word

Jovial

Adjective

To be good-humored, one who tries to inspire amusement or jolliness in others. To make others feel merry or to fill them with glee.

“The court jester turned an otherwise grim meeting into a rather jovial affair.”