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Definition
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In German there are
six modal verbs (Modalverben), which
are very commonly used and are the equivalent of English modal
auxiliary verbs. These verbs modify the meaning of a main verb
by introducing notions of obligation/probability, possibility, and volition.
The modal verbs in German are: können (can, to be able to),
müssen (must, to have to), wollen (will, to want to),
sollen (should, am to, ought to, to be supposed to), dürfen
(may, to be allowed to), mögen (to like, to like to).
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Notes
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1. These
six verbs can be conjugated in relation to the present, the past and the
future and they share a common pattern of conjugation,
which is different from that followed by most verbs. It is usual therefore
to treat these verbs as belonging to a distinctive group with its own
pattern of conjugation. The various forms of the six verbs must be learnt
separately from other verbs.
2. The
modal verbs are almost always used with another verb, which is required
to complete the meaning. This second verb is always in the infinitive
form and is placed at the end of the clause or sentence, e.g.
Ich darf nicht
in die Disko gehen
(I am not allowed
to go to the disco)
Kannst du mir helfen?
(Can you help me?)
Wann soll er ankommen?
(When is he supposed to arrive?)
3. As
in English, nuances of meaning can be subtle according to the context
in which they are used, particularly when used in past tenses.
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