Future Possibility and Probability Modals

   Future Possibility and Probability Modals

• Will have to, have to and must convey the idea that an action is going to be necessary in the near future.  The negative forms are will not and do not have to. 

Example

The party doesn’t start until 10:00, and it’s only 8:45. We do not have to leave for a while yet.

• Should and ought to convey the idea that something is expected in the future.

Example

Let’s stop by the restaurant on the way home. They ought to be at school by the time we get there.

• Could, may or might convey the idea of future possibility. Of these, may expresses a stronger degree of certainty that an event will occur.

Example

The temperature is dropping. It could snow during the night.


PRACTICE:  http://web2.uvcs.uvic.ca/ELC/STUDYZONE/410/grammar/410-future-possibility-and-probability-modals1.htm


                                                                                                         Taken from University of Victoria