The verb in English is a very unusual part of speech. To begin with, in this language there are 4 types of verbs - semantic, auxiliary, phrasal and modal. In the article we will talk just about them. So, modal verbs in English are not the most difficult topic. But what are they? First of all, this type of verb does not obey the basic rules for changing and forming forms of ordinary, semantic verbs. They indicate the need or desire to complete this action.
What characterizes modal verbs in English?
- Not used without semantic verbs.
- Do not change by faces.
- Do not change by numbers.
- Do not have an infinitive.
- Some of the modal verbs do not have past and future tenses, so instead of them verbs that are close in meaning are used.
- 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 table of verbs that plunges a person into panic ... In fact, everything is not so bad. And you will see this.
Basic modal verbs of the English language
Can
Indicates the physical ability to perform an action. In the past and future tenses, instead of can , was able and will be able are used, 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 appeals. It can also be used as an expression of doubt about the possibility of an action. Note that could still be preferred in communication than can . Drawing an analogy with Russian, can is cronyism, which is permissible only among the closest people. And even then, will you not be rude to your best friend? So you can use it wherever you need it. The British are distinguished by emphasized courtesy, 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 from the meticulous British, what an uncultured person you are.
For example :
- I will be able to help you. โI can help you.โ
- Maybe he could bring me my favorite tea. โI donโt know for sure, maybe he can manage to bring me my favorite tea.โ
As for the form could , it also means the ability to do something in the past and is translated by the subjunctive mood.
- Could he give us his car for a week? โCould he give us his car for a week?โ
Must
This verb has only the present tense form. In the past tense and in the future, instead of must, another modal verb is put - have to . Note that it has forms of all times and is used with an auxiliary verb. Indicates a strict obligation, and in a negative form - a strict ban on the commission of any action.
For example :
- You mustn't drink so much juice! โYou can't drink so much juice!โ
- You must help your mother around the house. - You have to help 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 tough imperative, which is well illustrated by the phrase "Die, but do." Recall that this verb has the forms of all times and is used together with the auxiliary verb in the construction of negation and question. The rest of the modal verbs in English are used without the auxiliary verb.
For example :
- We have to write this work because it is our graduate test. - We must write this work, as this is our final qualification test.
- We will have to go to our granny soon, but she never expects us. - We will soon have to go to grandma, but she never waits for us.
- You have to go for a long walk to the doctor with your dog. - You have to go for a walk with the dog for a long time and then go to the doctor.
Should
This verb denotes a milder longevity, it is an imperative in the form of advice. In addition, it can be used to express a conscious need to do something.
For example :
- I won't be silent. Not only we think he shouldn't come home in the morning. - I will not be silent. Not only do we think that he should not come home in the morning.
May
As the past tense form, the might form is used, which indicates a low probability of an action. It can also be used as a polite request or permission to do something.
What will help to learn English?
In any case, what helps you learn English well are tests. Modal verbs are well absorbed precisely when using the test form of knowledge control. However, the subtleties of using verbs can only be learned in the 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 impact of the environment. Once in the language environment, a person begins to make significant progress in the language. Why is this so? It's all a matter of necessity. In a hopeless situation, a person mobilizes, gathers, and learning is faster.