Understanding Modal Verbs

The video tutorial introduces modal verbs, a class of auxiliary verbs with special properties that help express conditions. It explains how modal verbs like may, might, must, can, could, shall, should, will, and would are used to express likelihood, possibility, ability, permission, and obligation. The tutorial covers the properties of modal verbs, such as their agreement with all subjects and lack of infinitive forms. Examples illustrate how modal verbs indicate modality, and the special uses of 'will' and 'shall' for future tense are discussed.

What is the primary function of modal verbs?

• To describe nouns

• To express conditions and possibilities

• To express past actions

• To form questions

Which of the following is NOT a modal verb?

• Can

• Might

• Should

• Have

What is unique about the agreement of modal verbs with subjects?

• They change form based on the subject

• They remain the same regardless of the subject

• They only agree with singular subjects

• They only agree with plural subjects

Why can't modal verbs have an infinitive form?

• They are only used in questions

• They do not exist in a 'to' form

• They are auxiliary verbs

• They are always used in past tense

How is the modal verb 'must' used in the context of a detective story?

• To express a past action

• To express a high likelihood

• To give permission

• To ask a question

What does the modal verb 'may' express when used in a sentence?

• Future actions

• Possibility or permission

• Past actions

• Certainty

Which modal verb would you use to express an ability?

• Can

• Should

• Might

• Must

In what context is 'would' used in the example provided?

• To express a future action

• To make a suggestion

• To offer an excuse

• To give permission

What is a special feature of the modal verb 'will'?

• It forms the past tense

• It indicates future actions

• It expresses necessity

• It is used for giving advice

Which modal verb is less commonly used in American English but still popular in British English?

• Might

• Can

• Shall

• Would