English Aspect + Modality
Expressing possibility, obligation, continuation, completion, and nuance. Adapted for English. This English reference focuses on recognition, lookup, and practical reading rather than drills.
Rule 1: Express obligation and possibility
Use this section to express obligation and possibility in English. Check the example sentence, then compare the form with the surrounding words before applying the pattern elsewhere.
Rule 2: Read completion and continuation
Use this section to read completion and continuation in English. Check the example sentence, then compare the form with the surrounding words before applying the pattern elsewhere.
Rule 3: Recognize nuanced stance
Use this section to recognize nuanced stance in English. Check the example sentence, then compare the form with the surrounding words before applying the pattern elsewhere.
Examples
I understood the rule in this example.
I understood the rule in this example.
Use this as a English lookup example for obligation.
The form changes according to context.
The form changes according to context.
Use this as a English lookup example for possibility.
English lookup checklist
| Question | What to check |
|---|---|
| Meaning | What does the form contribute to the sentence? |
| Agreement | Does it match person, number, gender, case, or tense? |
| Position | Does placement change emphasis or grammatical role? |
Common Mistakes
- Do not translate the English pattern word-for-word from English.
- Check the whole phrase before deciding what a single form means.
- Watch for register: a correct written form can sound too formal in casual speech.
Lookup Tips
- Start with the example closest to your sentence.
- Identify the trigger word or ending before memorizing a rule.
- Save the topic as a focus if you expect to revisit it.