MODAL-LIKE EXPRESSIONS WITH BE/ UNIT 8

 

Modal-like Expressions with "Be"

These are expressions that behave similarly to modal verbs (like can, should, might), but use "be" + adjective/noun/infinitive structure.

Common Expressions:

Structure:

Subject + be (am/is/are/was/were) + modal-like phrase + base verb

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Examples:

We are supposed to finish the project by Friday.

She is likely to win the competition.

They were about to leave when it started raining.

I am willing to help you with your homework.

He wasn’t allowed to go out last night.

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Mini Exercises: Complete the sentences

1. You __________ (have permission) to eat in the lounge.

2. I __________ (am ready) to explain everything.

3. We __________ (expected) to arrive by 9 PM.

4. He __________ (probably) forget the meeting.

5. They __________ (almost) call the police!

6. She __________ (can) dance like a pro.

7. This book __________ (intended) to help beginners.

8. We __________ (plan) to travel next summer.

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Answers:

1. are allowed to

2. am willing to

3. are supposed to

4. is likely to

5. were about to

6. is able to

7. is meant to

8. are going to