Modality: expressing facts, opinions, desires Here are some useful expressions based on modal verbs. I must admit/confess/say that I didn’t enjoy the film. You want me to lend you £1,000! You must be joking! You must have been frightened/worried/nervous/happy, etc. when you heard the news! Don't look so miserable — it may/might (well) never happen! What, may/might I ask, was the point of throwing your pen on the floor like that? Iwas just glancing out of the window when who should I see but the boss. A: Why are you so gloomy? The interview didn’t go that badly. You still might get the job! &: I should be so lucky! [That is not likely!] All the other candidates were better qualified Don’t worry about spilling the wine. Accidents will happen! [accidents are inevitable] ‘The car won't start. What can I do? That'll be John making that noise. He always plays his music very loud. Here are some ways of expressing probability. The odds are he'll get the job. [it is likely that] ‘The odds are against her passing the exam. [it is unlikely that] They are bound to get married in Ee end. [almost certain to] He’s likely to call round this eve It’s probable/I kely/certain/inevitable that they'll come and visit us at the weekend. In all probability we'll get the job finished on time. The chances are small that people will be living on the moon in the next decade. There’s every likelihood that the price of petrol will rise soon. Here are some ways of expressing advice. If I were in your shoes / in the same boat, I'd [if I were in the same situation] Let me give you a tip/hint/suggestion/some pointers. Thope you'll take this in the spirit in which it is intended, but you really should have checked the boat first. It would be advisable/sensible/expedient/advantageous/prudent/wise to ... [formal] Here are some ways of expressing obligation and lack of obligation. It is essential that you (should) take strong footwear with you. Wearing a safety helmet is obligatory in this area. The road was blocked. We had no option but to turn back. It is compulsory to put the lights out by ten o'clock. We have an obligation to preserve the school’s good name. Some courses are optional but Maths and English are compulsory. Here are some ways of expressing a desire to do something. 1 am determined/anxious/eager/resolved to do whatever I can to help. He wishes/desires/yearns/longs to return home. She has ambitions/aspirations to become Prime Minister. 164 English Vocabulary in Use (Advanced)