Semi-Modal Verbs

 

Semi-Modal Verbs Semi- means partly. So semi-modal verbs are "verbs that are partly like modal verbs." Semi-modal verbs have this name because they are partly like modal verbs and partly like regular verbs. This is because they show the same meaning as modal verbs, but they follow the grammar of regular verbs. Almost every modal verb has a semi-modal verb with a similar meaning. For example, can is a modal verb. Be able to is a semi-modal verb. Both verbs express an ability to do something. Examples:  Can: She can sing very well. Be able to: She is able to sing very well.   Can: I can lift the box. Be able to: I am able to lift the box.   Can: You can run fast. Be able to: You are able to run fast.   So as you can see, the semi-modal verb be able to expresses ability just like can, but it is used in different situations. If we use be able to in the simple present, it sounds much more formal than can. Now this is just the tip of the iceberg! It's important to know and practice all modal verbs and semi-modal verbs. They may seem similar, but there are important nuances that set them apart. So becoming proficient in these special verbs is a giant step towards correct and natural English!