Final answer:
A modal verb is an auxiliary verb indicating modality such as ability, permission, or obligation. There are several types, including can, could, may, might, shall, should, will, would, and must, each with unique uses and meanings.
Step-by-step explanation:
A modal verb is a type of auxiliary verb that is used to indicate modality – that is likelihood, ability, permission, and obligation. Types of modal verbs include can, could, may, might, shall, should, will, would, and must. Each modal has its own meaning(s) and uses. For example:
- Can is used to express ability or permission (e.g., I can swim, You can go).
- Could is more polite than can, and can also express possibility (e.g., I could help you).
- May expresses permission or possibility (e.g., You may leave).
- Might is used for something that is less probable than may (e.g., It might rain).
- Shall is typically used in formal settings or to offer a suggestion (e.g., Shall we dance?).
- Should implies an obligation or something that is right to do (e.g., You should see a doctor).
- Will is used to express determination or future events (e.g., I will finish my work).
- Would often refers to a hypothetical situation or politeness (e.g., Would you mind?).
- Must expresses a strong obligation or necessity (e.g., You must stop).
It's important to use modals properly to convey the right meaning, as they can significantly change the intent of a sentence.