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Wordabulary

modal auxiliary

Pronunciation
Noun B1 Intermediate

Quick answer

A helping verb, such as 'can', 'must', or 'should', that adds meaning like ability, permission, or necessity to a main verb.

"'Might', 'could', and 'should' are all modal auxiliaries used to soften a statement."

Synonyms and antonyms

Synonyms

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In your own words, what does "modal auxiliary" mean?

A helping verb, such as 'can', 'must', or 'should', that adds meaning like ability, permission, or necessity to a main verb.

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