Question

Read the examples. which modal verb do w e use to express:a positive deduction? a negative deduction? uncertainty?

Answer 1

A positive deduction?

must have

A negative deduction?

can't have

Uncertainty?

may have

Answer 2

Modal verbs are often used to express different degrees of deduction or speculation. Here are examples of how different modal verbs can be used to convey positive deduction, negative deduction, and uncertainty:

1. Positive Deduction:

   • She must be at home because her car is in the driveway.
   • He can't be the thief; he was with me all evening.
   • They will definitely win the game; they have the best players.

   Modal verbs like "must," "can't," and "will" are used to express a positive deduction when you are fairly certain about something based on the available evidence.

2. Negative Deduction:

   • She couldn't have finished the project so quickly; it's too complex.
   • He mustn't know about the surprise party; he would have said something.
   • They won't have left yet; the event hasn't even started.

   Modal verbs like "couldn't," "mustn't," and "won't" are used to express a negative deduction when you are fairly certain that something did not or will not happen based on the evidence or circumstances.

3. Uncertainty:

   • She might come to the party, but I'm not sure.
   • He may have forgotten to call; it happens sometimes.
   • They could be delayed due to traffic; I can't be certain.

   Modal verbs like "might," "may," and "could" are used to express uncertainty when you are not entirely sure about a situation or outcome.

These modal verbs help convey varying degrees of confidence or uncertainty in your statements.