What is the difference between deontic and epistemic modal verbs?

A modal verbs is a type of auxiliary verb that shows possibility or obligationAn auxiliary verb is a verb that forms the tenses or moods in a sentence "helping words"e.g. Be, do, have (I have visited Rome)Modal Auxiliaries include:cancouldmaymightmustshallshouldwill, and wouldA deontic verb demonstrates necessity/obligation - so you need to complete the action e.g. You must go to school e.g. You should brush your teeth An epistemic verb shows possibility - often highlighting ability or choice to perform an action eg. you could go to school e.g., You might go to school

CB
Answered by Catherine B. English Language tutor

8263 Views

See similar English Language A Level tutors

Related English Language A Level answers

All answers ▸

In what way is an English Language essay different to an English Literature essay at A Level?


What are features should I look out for when analyzing non-fiction or non-literary texts?


How do I start analysing language use in texts in exams?


What is overgeneralisation and why do children use it?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences