Key Difference – Modal vs Auxiliary Verbs
Modal verbs, also referred to as modal auxiliaries, are a type of auxiliary verb used for making requests, speaking of possibilities, and more. Auxiliary verbs, or helping verbs, add grammatical value to a sentence and usually go along with the main verb. One key difference between these two types of verbs is that auxiliary verbs need to be conjugated, while modal auxiliary verbs do not.
What are Modal Verbs?
Modal verbs include can, could, may, shall, will, would, should, ought to, and need. They are used when making requests, asking for permission, speaking of ability, and when speaking of possibilities. Modal verbs express mood and time and are used along with the main verb to provide a complete meaning, but they do not need to be conjugated according to the subject of the sentence.
What are Auxiliary Verbs?
Auxiliary verbs, also known as helping verbs, go along with the main verb and sometimes can stand alone. Common auxiliary verbs include be, do, and have. These verbs help provide grammatical accuracy and make sense to the listener or reader. Auxiliary verbs allow the speaker to present an idea of the time in which an event occurred, and they need to be conjugated according to the subject of the sentence.
What is the Difference Between Modal and Auxiliary Verbs?
- Modal verbs: used when making requests, speaking of possibilities, etc.
- Auxiliary verbs: function as helping verbs.
- Conjugation: modal verbs do not need to be conjugated, while auxiliary verbs do.
