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Modals for Degrees of Certainty in the Future

Modals can be used to show a degree of certainty.

Should, ought to, may, might, and could are used to show a degree of certainty in the future.


Degrees of certainty in the future

Notice that future certainty and present certainty are very similiar.

If you are very confident then use will (future)

  • The party will be great.

If you are mostly certain then use should or ought to.

  • The party should be great.
  • The party ought to be great.

If you are around 50% certain use may.

  • The party may be great.

If you are not very sure at all use might or could. These show that you doubt it.

  • The party might be great.
  • The party could be great.

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