modal

Pronunciation

• (US) IPA ^(key): /ˈmoʊd.əl/
• (UK) IPA ^(key): /ˈməʊd.əl/

• Audio (UK)

  (file)

Noun

Singular modal

Plural modals

1. (countable) A modal, is a kind of verb, such as can or should that expresses possibility, ability, intention, or necessity.

   The modals in English are mostly auxiliary verbs that don't have gerund-participle forms.

Adjective

Positive modal

Comparative none

Superlative none

1. (semantics) Modal meanings express possibility, ability, intention, or necessity.

   The English modal auxiliary verbs include can, should, must, might, etc.

2. The modal value or amount is the middle one.
   • Synonym: average

Related words

• modality
• mode