Single-Word Modals and Periphrastic Modals

We have already seen many single-word modals (modal aux-words).

can could would should may might must will wont shall

There are also modals composed of several words. These are called periphrastic modals. 1. Single-word modal: Periphrastic modal:
can (ability) be able to am is are able to was were

Same meaning: 2. Single-word modal: Periphrastic modal:

I can help him. I am able to help him.

may (permission) be allowed to or be permitted to am is are allowed to was permitted to were

Same meaning: 3. Single-word modal: Periphrastic modal: Same meaning:

You may not smoke in restaurants in this state. You are not allowed to (you are not permitted to) smoke in restaurants.
must (need, necessity, obligation, or duty) have to

Excuse me, but I must go now. Excuse me, but I have to go now.

Important: You cannot have two consecutive single-word modals (, consecutivos, ).

The second one must change to a periphrastic modal. Wrong: Right: Wrong: Right: I passed my test, so next semester I will can take Level 7. I passed my test, so next semester I will be able to take Level 7. Before you go to Level 5, you must can write yes/no questions. Before you go to Level 5, you must be able to write yes/no questions.

Exercise 1: Change the single-word modals to periphrastic modals. The meaning of the new sentences will be the same. a. I cant help him right now. > I am not able to help him right now. 1. I must be there by 4:00. > 2. Shes only two and a half, and she can read! 3. They may not watch TV until they have finished their homework. > 4. The little boy couldnt tell the police what his parents' names were.
J5110499Trego Roland Trego 11/04/99 rev. 11/24/2013 5:00 PM