Difference between modals and semi modals?

Question: Difference between modals and semi modals?

Modal verbs and semi-modal verbs are both types of auxiliary verbs that help to express various meanings and functions in English. While they have similarities, there are some differences between them.

Modal Verbs:

1. Modal verbs include "can," "could," "may," "might," "shall," "should," "will," "would," "must," "ought to," and "need."

2. They are used to indicate abilities, possibilities, permissions, obligations, requests, suggestions, and more.

3. Modal verbs do not take the marker "-s" in the third person singular form.

4. They are followed by the base form of the verb without "to" (infinitive) in the simple form, e.g., "He can swim," "She must go," "They should study."

Semi-Modal Verbs:

1. Semi-modal verbs, also known as quasi-modals or marginal modals, include "have to," "used to," "need to," "ought to," and "dare."

2. They have some characteristics of both modal verbs and ordinary verbs.

3. Semi-modal verbs can express necessity, obligation, recommendation, or permission.

4. Unlike modal verbs, semi-modal verbs can take the "-s" marker in the third person singular form.

5. They are followed by the base form of the verb with "to" (infinitive) in the simple form, e.g., "He has to work," "She ought to study," "They used to play."

The distinction between modal verbs and semi-modal verbs can sometimes be subtle, as certain verbs can function as both modal and semi-modal verbs in different contexts. However, in general, modal verbs are a more distinct and well-established category in English grammar, while semi-modal verbs have some characteristics of modal verbs but also show more similarities to ordinary verbs.

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