A verb in English is a very unusual part of speech. Let's start with the fact that in this language there are 4 types of verbs - semantic, auxiliary, phrasal and modal. In the article we will talk about them. So, modal verbs in English are not the most difficult topic. But what are they? First of all, this kind of verbs does not obey the basic rules for changing and forming the forms of ordinary, semantic verbs. They indicate the need or desire to perform this action.
What characterizes modal verbs in English?
- Not used without semantic verbs.
- Do not change in faces.
- Do not change by numbers.
- Do not have an infinitive.
- Some of the modal verbs do not have past and future forms, so verbs that are close in meaning are used instead.
- When constructing a negative and interrogative sentence, as a rule, an auxiliary verb is not used.
At first glance, it all seems complicated - incomprehensible English, modal verbs, a verb table that throws a person into a panic … In fact, everything is not so bad. And you are in itmake sure.
Basic modal verbs in English
Can
Denotes the physical ability to perform some action. In the past and future tenses, was able and will be able are used instead of can, respectively. This verb also has the form could, but it is rarely used in the past tense. This form is used in requests and polite addresses. It can also be used as an expression of doubt about the possibility of performing an action. Note that it is still preferable to use could in communication than can. Drawing an analogy with Russian, can is a familiarity, which is permissible only in the circle of the closest people. And even then, you won’t be rude to your best friend, will you? So you don't need to use it anywhere. The British are distinguished by emphatic politeness, courtesy and respect for someone else's personal space. If you ask for bread in the store using can, they simply will not answer you, and this is at best. At worst, you have to listen to meticulous Britons about what an uncultured person you are.
For example:
- I will be able to help you. - I can help you.
- Maybe he could bring me my favorite tea. - I don't know for sure, maybe he can still bring me my favorite tea.
As for the form could, it also denotes the ability to do something in the past and is translated by the subjunctive mood.
- Could he give us his car for a week? - Could he lend us his car for a week?
Must
This verb has only the present tense form. In the past tense and in the future, another modal verb is put instead of must - have to. Note that it has forms of all tenses and is used with an auxiliary verb. Denotes a strict obligation, and in a negative form - a strict prohibition on the commission of any action.
For example:
- You mustn't drink so much juice! - You can't drink that much juice!
- You must help your mother around the house. - you have to help your mom with the housework.
Have to
Like the previous verb, have to denotes the action that a person must perform regardless of external conditions and his desire. This is a hard imperative, which is well illustrated by the phrase "Die, but do." Recall that this verb has forms of all tenses and is used together with an auxiliary verb when constructing a negation and a question. The remaining modal verbs in English are used without an auxiliary verb.
For example:
- We have to write this work because it is our graduate test. - We have to write this paper as it is our final qualification test.
- We will have to go to our granny soon, but she never expects us. - We'll have to go to grandma's soon, but she never waits for us.
- You have to go for a long walk to the doctor with your dog. - You should go for a walk with the dog for a long time and then go todoctor.
Should
This verb denotes a softer duty, it is an imperative in the form of advice. It can also be used to express a perceived need to do something.
For example:
I won't be silent. Not only do we think he shouldn't come home in the morning. - I will not be silent. We're not the only ones who think he shouldn't come home in the morning
May
The past tense form is might, which denotes a low probability of an action. It can also be used as a polite request or permission to do something.
What will help you learn English?
In any case, what will help you learn English well are tests. Modal verbs are well learned when using the test form of knowledge control. However, the subtleties of the use of verbs can only be learned in a language environment. But in any case, if you once learn modal verbs in English, this knowledge will remain with you for life. In addition, do not underestimate the influence of the environment. Getting into the language environment, a person begins to make significant progress in the language. Why is it so? It's all about necessity. In a hopeless situation, a person mobilizes, gathers, and training goes faster.
