Indicating likelihood
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Using modal verbs to indicate likelihood | page 5 of 7 |
Indicating low likelihood (weak possibility)
Note that different modals are typically used to indicate varying degrees of likelihood. The modals in the following examples indicate low likelihood or weak possibility:
I simply won't let myself dream about sex. It seems a dangerous thing to do. After all, I won't be able to control it. The whole thing could easily get out of hand. (Bank of English)
Advertising may be described as the science of arresting the human intelligence long enough to get money from it. (Stephen Leacock)
Although the decision of the Federal Regulator may not come until next year, these hearings may affect his father's Republican Party's vote in November's mid-term elections. (Bank of English)
I might end up doing things I couldn't bear to witness myself doing.
(Bank of English)
I didn't wanna take two people on, on the basis that the job mightn't be there after Christmas. (Bank of English)
Introduction
Indicating low likelihood
