Modals for possibility such as 'may', 'might', and 'could' help you express uncertainty or potential outcomes. These small words can significantly alter the meaning of a sentence, making them essential for clear communication.
Examples
Example 1
IncorrectShe will attend the meeting.
BetterShe might attend the meeting.
Using 'might' indicates that her attendance is uncertain.
Example 2
IncorrectThe project will be completed by next week.
BetterThe project may be completed by next week.
'May' suggests that completion by next week is possible but not guaranteed.
How It Works
Meaning
Modals like may, might, and could express possibility or uncertainty about an event or situation. They indicate that something is possible but not certain.
Formation: subject + modal verb + base verb. These modals are used to soften statements, making them less direct and more tentative.
At B2 level, understanding these nuances is crucial for expressing degrees of certainty in both spoken and written communication.
Use it when
- Expressing uncertainty or potential outcomes in academic writing.
- Discussing future possibilities in business or formal contexts.
- Making polite suggestions or recommendations.
- Speculating about past events in conversation.
See it
Quick rules
- Use may, might, and could to express possibility.
- Always follow the modal with the base form of the verb.
- Choose the modal based on the degree of certainty you wish to convey.
- Avoid using 'to' after these modals.
- Consider the context to decide which modal best fits the situation.
Common Mistakes
Common problem 1
using 'to' after a modal verb
WeakShe might to attend the conference.
StrongShe might attend the conference.
Fix: Use the base verb directly after the modal.
Common problem 2
confusing modal strength
WeakThey could definitely win the match.
StrongThey might win the match.
Fix: 'Might' is more appropriate for expressing uncertainty.
Common problem 3
using modals for certainty instead of possibility
WeakShe will be late to the meeting.
StrongShe may be late to the meeting.
Fix: Use 'may' to indicate that being late is a possibility, not a certainty.
Practice Lab
Practice
Use these exercises to practice using modals for expressing possibility.
Score: 0/3
Focus on choosing the correct modal to express the desired level of certainty.
1. Quick pick
Choose the sentence that correctly uses a modal for possibility.
2. Build it
Put this Modals for possibility sentence in the correct order.
Tap a chunk to move it down. Tap it again to send it back.
3. Final sort
Mark each sentence as correct or needing a fix.
It could rain later.
It could to rain later.
Why It Matters
🎯 Why it matters: Using modals for possibility like 'may', 'might', and 'could' allows you to convey uncertainty and potential outcomes effectively. Mastery of these modals enhances your ability to communicate nuanced ideas clearly and appropriately in both written and spoken English.
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