Modal Verbs
Learn all about modal verbs and their usage in sentences. Check out the examples and the practice exercise to have a better idea.
What Are Modal Verbs?
Modal verbs are helping verbs that are used along with main verbs to represent a subject’s ability, possibility, and probability to do an action and emphasize the necessity of an action.
Examples of Modal Verbs
Let us look at some examples of modal verbs used as auxiliary verbs and their functions.
| Modal Verb | Function |
| Can | Used to denote the ability of the subject to perform an action or to request permission to perform an action |
| Could | Used to denote the ability of the subject to perform an action or an offer made by the subject to perform an action |
| May | Used to denote the probability of an action taking place or to request permission to perform an action |
| Might | Used to denote the probability of an action taking place or to make suggestions |
| Will | Used to denote the surety of an action taking place or the assurance of the subject to perform a particular action |
| Would | Used to show politeness when requesting or asking if an action can be done by the subject. |
| Shall | Used to denote the surety of an action taking place or the assurance of the subject to perform a particular action |
| Should | Used to denote the necessity of an action to be done by the subject |
| Must | Used to denote the strong obligation or necessity for the subject to do or not do an action |
| Ought to | Used to denote the obligation of the subject to perform a particular action |
Sir, I like it how beautifully it is explained about each modal verbs.
Sir doubt in may , might , will , ought to
This may help you
1. May → possibility / permission
Used when something is possible or when asking permission.
It may rain today.
May I come in?
2. Might → weaker possibility
Used when something is possible but less certain than “may”.
He might come tomorrow.
I might buy a new phone.
👉 “Might” = less sure than “may”.
3. Will → future / certainty
Used for future actions or strong certainty.
I will call you tonight.
She will win the match.
👉 “Will” shows confidence or future action.
4. Ought to → advice / moral duty
Used to give advice or say what is right.
You ought to respect your parents.
We ought to help poor people.
👉 Similar to should, but a little more formal.
Quick Comparison
Word Meaning
May possible / permission
Might less possible
Will future / sure
Ought to advice / duty
Easy Examples
It may rain. (possible)
It might rain. (less sure)
It will rain. (certain)
You ought to carry an umbrella. (advice)