Learning English Grammar Modals of deduction and speculation
Jul 22, 2025
Explore how modal verbs help us guess about past events and analyze the intriguing world of fossil discoveries. Delve into recent finds in China and Taiwan that might reveal unknown human species or interbreeding patterns. Learn how words like 'must,' 'can't,' 'might,' and 'may' paint a picture of uncertainty and possibility in scientific discussions. Engage with quizzes that challenge your understanding and deepen your grasp of deduction and speculation in everyday conversations.
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Fiona's Fossil Discovery
- Fiona talks about fossils found in China and Taiwan that might be from unknown human species or result of breeding between species.
- This example demonstrates making guesses about present possibilities using modal verbs like might and may.
Using Modals for Present Possibility
- Use might, may, or could plus infinitive to express present possibilities when unsure.
- Use can't plus infinitive to express strong disbelief or impossibility of something.
Modals for Past Deduction
- To talk about past possibilities, use might, may, or could plus have and past participle.
- To express certainty about the past, use must or can't plus have and past participle.