Replace the verb ‘can’ with these alternatives, and explain how the meaning of the sentence has changed.
In the sentence below, it is possible to replace the verb can with other verbs, e.g. must, should, won’t. How does your choice of verb affect the meaning or mood of the sentence? Illustrate your ideas by using the sentence in a little dialogue.
I can talk to him.
Must. Ought to. Shall. Should. Will. Would.
Mustn’t. Oughtn’t to. Shan’t. Shouldn’t. Won’t. Wouldn’t.
Based on an exercise in English Exercises 12-13 (1933) by NL Clay.
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