1.1.

MODAL SEMANTIC FUNCTIONS

As stated earlier, one of the most difficulties that learners encounter when learning the modal

verbs is that modal verbs have different functions and two modals can have the same

function. Thus, this section will divide modals into a table of four pairs (can/could;

will/would; may/might and shall/should): -

Can/ Could: -

Function Example:
1) Ability - I can swim.

- She could read the passage without

blinking.
2) Possibility - I can meet you at eight o’clock.

- They could be there when you arrive.

3) Request - Can I ask you something?

- Could you help me unpack.

4) Permission - You can use my car anytime.

- You could have a break after 25 minutes.

Will/Would: -

Function Example:
1) volition - I will help you move that sofa.

- I would be honoured to come.

2) Request - Will you help me with that?

- Would you pass the salt, please?

3) Prediction - I will pass the exam on Monday.

- They would be here by tomorrow.

May/Might: -

Function Example:
1) Permissi - You may take my pen.
on
- You might have my book tomorrow.
 2) Possibility - I may finish in two hours.

- They might fail the exam.

3) Polite - May I use your computer?

request - Might we go camping with our

friends?

Shall/Should: -

Function Example:
1) Advice