2.0 Modals Introduction

Hello! Learners.

      This the first article, initials of modals in the series of learning intermediate English grammar from this blog. As this is an introductory module, we understand what is modals, and how we can use it logically in the English communication whether in written or spoken speech. It is also known as Modal Auxiliary. 

As per our commitment of giving you live examples, we have one of the quotes from a German writer, Johann Wolfgang VonGoethe. He has written many popular novels of his time. Here it is.

Ultimate guide To Learn: Modals

The quote: 

Knowing is not enough; We must apply. Wishing is not enough; We must do.

– Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

First, we look at modals then go through the quote.

Grammar point: 2.0 Modals Introduction:

What are modals?

Modals are certain types of verbs that help the main verb, so they also called helping verbs.

Generally, they come after the subject, before the main verb as shown below.

 Formation:

Subject + modal + main verb

Modals:

Simple form:	Past form:
Can	Could	Must
May	Might	Had better
Will	Would	Had to
Shall	Should

Rules:

    1.    Models do not change forms.

Examples:

         Wrong usage:

·       He cans run.

·       She coulded learn a language.

As in the examples, we cannot change the modal from the listed models.

    2.    The main verb will be in the original form.

Examples:

             ·       I can climb the mountain.

             ·       It may rain today.

   Refer to the formation of the modal above the bolded verbs are main verbs in their original form. Means they do not contain -s/es, -ing, -ed or past participle form. For instance, she loves, they are running, I decided, and Teacher taught.

Here in the quote:

“Knowing is not enough; We must apply. Wishing is not enough; We must do.”  – Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

-In the above example, the author used ‘must’ modal which expresses the necessity of a task. It is used when we have no choice or it obligatory by rule.

i. e. The students must wear a uniform in school.

More examples:

Without modal	With modal
- I am running fast.	- I should run fast.
- She walked into the garden.	- She can walk into the garden.
- We obey the rules.	- We must obey the rules.
- I pass the exam.	- I would pass the exam.
- My team won the match.	- My team may win the match.

          You can review the rules from the above examples.

     That’s not the end of the modals, stay tuned for more about modal by email. We will be posting more on modals as much articles as possible. If you have any query in modals comment below, we will try to revert you within 24 hours. Thank you.

-The ultimate guide to learn English Grammar.

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