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Modality: expressing facts, opinions, desires A
Expressions based on modal verbs I must admit/confess/say that I didn’t enjoy the film. You want me to lend you £1,000! You must be joking! You must have been frightened/worried/nervous/delighted/overjoyed when you heard the news! Don’t look so miserable – it may/might (well) never happen! What, may/might I ask, was the point of throwing your pen on the floor like that? (rather formal) I was just strolling through the park when who should I see / meet / bump into but my boss. Don’t worry about spilling the wine. Accidents will happen! [accidents are inevitable] The car won’t start. What can I do? That’ll be Sean making that noise. He always plays his music very loudly. A: Why are you so gloomy? The interview didn’t go badly. You might well be offered the job, you never know. B: I should be so lucky! [That is not likely!] All the other candidates were better qualified.
Common mistakes Remember the apostrophe in won’t: The window won’t open (NOT wont).
B
Ways of expressing probability The odds are he’ll get the job. [it is likely that] The odds are against her passing the exam. [it is unlikely that] They are bound to get married in the end. [almost certain to] She’s unquestionably the best student in the class. [there is no doubt at all] It was apparent that the negotiations were going badly. [obvious] She’ll be here by five o’clock, for sure. [I am sure] (usually comes at the end) In all probability we’ll get the job finished on time. [it is very likely] If you are not highly disciplined when you go on a diet, the chances are you won’t succeed. [it is probable that]
There’s every likelihood that the price of petrol will rise soon. [it is very probable]
C
Ways of expressing obligation and lack of obligation It is essential that you (should) take strong footwear with you. Wearing a safety helmet is obligatory in this area. The road was blocked. We had no option but to turn back. We have an obligation to preserve the school’s good name. Some courses are optional but Maths and English are compulsory.
D
Ways of expressing a desire to do something I am determined/anxious/eager/keen/resolved to do whatever I can to help. He wishes/desires/yearns/longs to return home. (all rather formal except long) She has ambitions/aspirations to become Prime Minister.
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English Vocabulary in Use Advanced
