Определение и Значение "semi-modal"

What is a "semi-modal"?

A semi-modal is a type of verb that behaves similarly to modal verbs but does not fully share all their characteristics. Semi-modals express nuances of ability, permission, obligation, or necessity and can function as auxiliaries in sentences. Common examples include "ought to," "have to," and "used to." For instance, in the sentence "You ought to see that movie," the phrase "ought to" indicates a recommendation. Unlike full modal verbs, semi-modals can sometimes change form, for example, by taking on the past tense. They provide speakers with additional options for expressing varying degrees of modality in their statements.