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4.11 Special Helping Verbs: Modals

The pattern of using a helping verb with the base form of a verb
also applies to another kind of helping verb: modals. Modals are
used to predict an action or condition, or to make a statement
that is not a simple fact. Some common modals are can,could,
may,might,must,should, and would.

As helping verbs, modals connect to the base form of a verb.
Pass,come, and help are the base forms used in the examples.
They are main verbs; the modals help them to express meaning.

You will learn many other modals. Apply the same concept when
using them.

Modals never change in form.

They connect to the base form of a verb.

4.12 Linking Verb To Be as Main Verb

When looking at the definitions of verb tenses, the terms action
and condition appear often. Action verbs like eat,swim, and go
refer to an action that takes place. Linking verbs, on the other
hand, show no action or physical event occurring. They indicate
conditions showing what the subject is, or is like.

The most common linking verb is to be. It shows being and
existing. When learning about tenses, you used the helping verb
to be together with a main verb. To be also performs another
job: It can be used as a main verb, just like other verbs. But

Annamust

passthe test..

SSheS may

to the race.comeee

Shemay come to the race.

ModalBase Form of Verb

Annamustpassthe test. come

Modal Base Form of Verb

passt

Would you please helpme?

Modal Base Form of Verb

help

Modals as helping verbs express

• possibility or necessity


• ability or permission


• polite requests

Wouldyou

pleasehelp

me?