Modal verbs are a type of auxiliary verb. This means they are always used with a main verb to add meaning; they cannot stand alone as the main verb in a sentence. English has several modal verbs, including can, could, may, might, must, will, would, shall, and should. In this lesson, we’ll focus on four commonly used ones: will, would, shall, and should. You’ll learn how they work, when to use them, and how their meanings can change depending on context.
Will
To show desire, preference, choice or consent:
I will accept your offer.
Will you please be quiet?
To show the future:
It will be a great party.
I will probably go out tonight.
To express capability:
The ship will take three hundred guests.
This bottle will hold two litres of wine.
To express determination or insistence:
I will pass my driving test.
I will do as you say.
Would
To show preference:
I would rather go to the cinema today.
I would prefer to stay in this weekend.
To express a wish/desire:
I would like to have more free time.
To offer advice:
If I were you, I would study economics.
Shall
To make a suggestion:
Shall we dance?
Shall I go now?
Shall for obligation in very formal situations:
You shall obey the rules.
Students shall not enter here.
There shall be no food and drink on the premises.
Should
To give an opinion or a suggestion:
You should stay at home if you are feeling tired.
He should make more compromises.
To express a preference or an idea:
I should walk to work more often.
We should go swimming on Saturday.
Ogulgerek YOLDASHOVA,
Teacher of the Department of Foreign Languages at the Seyitnazar Seydi Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute.
