CHAPTER I
THE FUNCTIONS OF MODAL AUXILIARIES
IN TIME MAGAZINE ARTICLESBy :
Andi Jaihutan Silitonga, S.S, M.Hum
Senior Lecture of English and Linguistics
Faculty of Letters
University of Darma Agung, Medan
AbstrakArtikel ini menganalisa empat jenis Modal berdasarkan
fungsi. Modal Can dapat digunakan untuk menunjukkan kemampuan,
kemungkinan, ijin, dan permintaan. Modal Could dapat digunakan
untuk menunjukkan kemampuan, kemungkinan, ijin, dan juga
permintaan. Modal May dapat digunakan untuk menunjukkan kemungkinan
dan ijin. Modal Might juga dapat digunakan untuk menunjukkan
kemungkinan dan ijin. Modal ini kemudian dicari penggunaannya pada
majalah Time edisi bulan Januari sampai Februari 2007. Hasil
analisa menunjukkkan bahwa Modal dengan fungsi kemungkinan adalah
yang paling dominan digunakan pada majalah Time dalam kurun waktu
tersebut (55.39 %). Hasil analisa juga menunjukkan bahwa Modal May
dan Might yang menunjukkan ijin tidak ada digunakan.Keywords : Can,
Could, May, Might
1. The BackgroundThe magazine is one of the indirect forms of
communication that takes information from all over the world. The
topic of a magazine may deal with social problem, law, criminal,
sport, and some others.
To write a report on magazine, the writer usually uses standard
language that must be clear and can be understood by the readers.
They use standard language because it is of high prestige in
community.
"The Time Magazine" is an International Magazine that spreads
almost all over the world. It is written in English. In order to be
able to understand the topics presented in this magazine one has to
master English language.
If someone wants to master English, one thing that should be
known is modal auxiliaries because they are often used in a
sentence. This is one way to master English. In English, we can
find some modal auxiliaries such as: can, could, may, might, shall,
should, will, must, had to, and ought to.
Modal is one term that is difficult to study because of the form
of modals and their various meaning or uses such as: obligation,
necessity, ability, permission, request, possibility, etc.
In this article, the writer chooses the topic "The Functions of
Modal Auxiliaries as Found in the Time Magazine" as the object of
his research. To be more specific, he is eager to find out the
function of some modal auxiliaries and meaning or implied in the
modals on which he wants to make a deeper analysis.
2. The Problem
Based on the background of the research, the writer formulates
the problems of this article as the following:
1. What function of modal auxiliaries are found in the "Time
Magazine articles"?
2. What function is dominantly used in the Time Magazine
articles?3. Scope and Limitation
By reading "Time Magazine" the writer discovers something
interesting to be discussed such as about the function of modal
auxiliaries as found in the Time magazine and what function is
dominantly use in the Time magazine during the period of January
until February 2007. Before going any further, it is important to
know about journalism language because in general the magazine uses
journalism language. Beside it is important for us to know what are
the main characteristics of journalism language and also what are
the functions of modal auxiliaries.
4. The Definition of Journalism Language
Press Journalism is the process of activities to seek, to dive,
to collect, to prepare, and to spread the news through the
newspaper, magazine, tabloid etc, to common people in the world or
journalism language is a daily activities related with note book,
the report days. Journalism is an activity that is possible to
press or mass media to work and confess well (Drs. As. Haris
Sumadiria, M.Si, 2005:5-6, Journalism : Indonesian book).
According to Indonesian Encyclopedia Journalism is a profession
that give information about the event or daily life using the
facilities (Suhandang, 2004:22).
5. The Main Characteristics of Journalism Language
The Main Characteristics of Journalism Language are: simple,
short, solid, unadorned, clear, pure, interesting, democracy, and
using active sentences. As par as possible avoid the using of
technical words of terms and submit to the rule and ethnics of
standard language.6. The Functions of Modal AuxiliariesModal
auxiliaries are verbs like words which typically attitude towards
the factual content of an utterance, such as uncertainty,
possibility, and necessity (may, could, ought to, etc). (Crystal ,
1992:257).
Scamper (1992:94) states that modal auxiliaries are verbs that
express a wide meanings (ability, permission, possibility,
advisability, prohibition, request) and modals have more than one
meaning. Krohn (1990:109) says that the modal auxiliaries do not
change their form for third person singular (she/he).
Wishon and Burks (1980:230) say that when the function only as
auxiliaries and do not change grammatical form in the way verbs do,
called modal auxiliaries. Some of them do function as the past
tense form of some of the others. May changes to might, will
changes to would, and can changes to could under the influence of a
past tense verb in the main clause of the sentence or occasionally
as with could, under the influence of a past adverbial.
Lamberts (1972: 234) states that auxiliaries in English are not
limited to simply one style. Be, have and do are auxiliaries with
precise function. They are among other things fully inflected. On
the other hand, modal auxiliaries like must, can, shall, might,
should do not "show action or state of being", and in general they
are completely uninflected. There is no infinitive " to must or
third person singular " George Shalis" or present participle
"knighting" or past participle " we have would. It is said should,
would, and might to express past time "of shall, will, can and
may".
Quirk, et al (1985:120) consider that auxiliary or helping verbs
are the primary verbs be, have, and do and the modal verbs are can,
may, will, shall, could, might, would, should, must, had to and
ought to. Since they can function only as auxiliaries, the modal
verbs will generally be referred to as modal auxiliaries.
Auxiliary verbs are "helping' verbs that add structural meaning
or a semantic coloring to verbs carrying the full burden of lexical
meaning. All auxiliaries share the ability to be directly followed
by not in negatives (Frank, 1972:95-96). He states that modal
auxiliaries generally have no "s" suffix for third person, no
infinitive or participle form and they have only two formal tenses,
the present and the past which used with the simple form of the
lexical verb (may offer, might offer), the perfect from (may or
might be offering), the perfect form (may or might have offered),
or the passive form (may or might be offered).
Meanwhile Quirk, et. al (1985:219) say that modality may be
defined as the manner in which the meaning of a clause is qualified
so as to reflect the speaker's judgment of the like hood of the
proposition it expresses being true. Halliday (1985:86) says that
modality is the possibilities which are not limited to a choice
between yes and no and there are intermediate degrees: various
kinds of determinacy that fall in between, like "sometimes' or
"maybe' and these intermediate degrees between positive and
negative poles.
As stated in previous page, the writer only focuses his analysis
on modal auxiliaries can, could, may, and might that can be found
in the "Time Magazine". So, the rest of modal auxiliaries will not
be explained in detail in this article.
Can, could, shall, should, must, will, would, ought to, may and
might are classified as modal auxiliaries that are often used in
the sentences, but the writer just studies a part of them, they are
can, could, may, and might. The writer chooses the modal can could,
may and might because these modals have similarities and
differences. They are similar in the functions to show possibility,
permission or request and it can be changed to be able to. The
differences are : modals can and could can be used to show ability,
but modals may and might cannot be used to show possibility, may or
might are more formal or polite than can or could is used to show
permission, but might is more formal than may, can or could to show
permission. In request, can or could is most common than may or
might. May or might are rarely used to show request. It is often
used to ask permission. Can as the ability, be able to can be used
to change can or could.
From all the theories the writer decides to choose Scamper
statement as his analysis theory. In this case, the writer tries to
describe the uses or the meanings of can only. The uses deal with
the sentences (positive, negative, and interrogative).
6.1. The Function of "Can"
6.1.1. Can
Can is probably the most common of the modals. The modal can is
used to show ability, request, possibility, and permission. It can
also be used in the affirmative, negative or interrogative
sentences. The past form of can is could.
Hayden et al (1956: 110) states the pattern of can as the
followings:
Affirmative: s + can + main verb + object
Example: I can take this book.
Negative: s + cannot + main verb + object
Example: I cannot take this book.
Interrogative: can + subject + main verb + object
Example: Can I take this book?
According to Wilson and Burks (1980) there are four kinds of
meaning of modal can, they are: to show ability, possibility,
permission, and request.
6.1.2 To Show Ability
In this sense, the modal can is followed by the simple form of
verb to express ability in the present tense, for examples:
(1) I can finish this work tomorrow, but I cannot finish it
today.
(2) She cannot reach the top shelf of the cupboard.
In sentence (1) can shows the ability and inability, while in
sentence (2) can shows inability because can is followed by
not.
Wishon and Burks (1980; 23 1) state that we use can to talk
about ability and
the negative of can is cannot (contraction: can't) and it
expresses inability. It can also be used interrogative sentence,
for examples:
(3) I can't open this bottle.
(4) Can you go to a party tomorrow morning?In sentence (3) can
shows the inability, while in sentence (4) can shows the ability in
interrogative sentence.
We can use be able to instead of can. It can be used in all the
tenses and which been can be used, for examples:
(5) He'll be able to see you in a few minutes.
(6) She hasn't been able to see that picture yet.
(7) He is able to against the challenges.
In sentences (5) - (7) be able is followed by to infinitive. Be
able to in the three sentences substituted by can.
6.1.3 To Show Request
In this request sense, the modal verb can is followed by the
simple form of verb to in the present.
Wishon and Burks (1980:231) say that modal can be used for
request and permission. It is usual in the interrogative form to
express request, for examples:
(8) Can I use the telephone, please?
(9) Can you open the window, please?
(10) Can I have a drink of water, please?
(11) Can you cash this check, please?
In sentence (8) - (11), we can see that can is put in the
beginning of the sentences and is followed by subject. It shows the
request or permission (8, 10) or asks someone to do something (9,
11).
6.1.4 To Show Permission
In this sense, the modal verb can is followed by the simple form
of verb to express permission in the present
Wishon and Burks (1989: 23 1) state that modal can be used for
request
and permission. Here, cannot expresses prohibition, for
examples:
(12) You can stay as lonely as you want.
(13) You can play football on Sundays.
(14) Can I sit near the blackboard?
(15) Can I use the telephone, please?
(16) You can not stay as long as you want. (Prohibition)
(17) You can not play football on Sundays.
In sentence (12) and (13) can shows (prohibition) or permission
giving, while in sentence (14) and (15) can shows request or asks
for permission and in sentence (16) and (17) can shows the
prohibition. Can is also often used to express permission,
especially in colloquial speech.
6.1.5 To Show Possibility
In this sense, the modal can is followed by the simple form of
verb to express possibility in the present tense.
Wishon and Burks (1980: 23 1) state that modal can express
possibility. They cannot expresses impossibility, for examples:
(18) Something can go wrong.
(19) It can snow in April.
(20) Can this be true?
(21) It can not be true. (Impossibility)
In sentence (20) can shows the possibility that there is still
doubt about something, while in sentence (20) can shows the
impossibility because can is followed by 'not'.
6.2. The Function of Could
Can has a present or future significance. The past form is
could. The modal could can be used to show past ability, request
past possibility and permission. It can also be used in
affirmative, negative or interrogative sentences.
Hayden et al (1956:110) propose the patterns of modal could as
the followings.
Affirmative: subject + could + main verb + object
For example : We could eat a whole cake.
Negative: subject + could + not + main verb + object
For example : We could not eat a whole cake.
Interrogative : could + subject + main verb + object
For example : Could we eat a whole cake?
According to Wishon and Burks (1980) there are four kinds of
meaning of modal could, they are: to show past ability,
possibility, permission, and request.
6.2.1. To Show Past Ability
In this sense, modal could is followed by the simple form of
verb to express past ability in general.
Wishon and Burks (189:63) state that could can be used to say
that someone had ability to do something in the past here could +
not expresses inability, for examples:
(22)
When he was younger, be could swim under the water for more than
aminute.
(23)
He could not come yesterday.
In sentence (22) could shows the ability in the past, but in
sentence (23) could shows inability in the past because it is
followed by 'not'.
Besides, could can be used when we want to say that someone has
the ability to do something and that he/she did it. In a particular
situation, we must use was/were able to (could is not possible) to
show the certain ability, for example:
(25) Even though I had hurt my leg. I was able to swim back to
the boat.
(not..... I could swim back)
Wishon and Burks (1980:231) state that could +have + a past
participle refers to ability that for some reason was not used. For
examples:
(26) I could have passed, but I did not study.
(27) He could have joined us, but he did not get our invitation
in time. In sentence (26) and (27) could is followed by have and
past participle to show the ability in the past.
6.2.2. To Show Request
In this sense could can be followed by the simple form of verb
to express request.
Tracey (1989:166) says that modal could can be used for a
request. It is more persuasive than modal can. To show request,
could is more formal than can. It is usual in interrogative form to
express request, for examples:
(28) Could you open the window, please?
(29) Could you lend me your money for one week?
(30) Could I turn in my paper tomorrow?
(31) Could I borrow your car?
(32) Could you cash this check, please?
In sentence (30) - (32) could shows the request. Could is put in
the beginning of the sentences to show the request. Could is more
formal or more polite than can, even in the sentences do not use
'please'.
6.2.3. To Show Permission
In this sense, the modal could is followed by the simple form of
verb to express permission.
Digby (1989:65) says that could is less direct and more polite
than can. Here, may is more formal (and some people think it is
more correct) than can or could, but can and could are more common,
for examples:
(33) You could have an appointment tomorrow.
(34) Could I leave the room?
(35) He could work tomorrow
In sentences (33) and (35) could shows permission or permission
giving to someone, while in sentence (34) could asks for permission
to someone.
6.2.4. To Show the Past Possibility
In this sense, the modal could is followed by simple form of
verb to express past possibility, for examples:
(36) She could be still at the station.
(37) Something could go wrong
(3 8) it could be rain.
In sentence (36) - (38) could shows the possibility in the past.
The event had happened, but it is still in doubt. In sentence (36)
it means that it is possible that she is still at the station. In
sentence (37) it means that it is possible that something go wrong,
and in sentence (38) it means that it is possible that it is
rain.
6.3. The Function of "May"
6.3.1. May
The modal may can be used to show permission and possibility. It
has a past form that is might. It can be used in negative and
interrogative sentences.
Hayden et al (1956:113) propose the patterns of modal may as the
followings:
Affirmative: subject + may + main verb + object
For example: You may go now.
Negative : subject + may + not + main verb + object
For example: You may not go now.
Interrogative: may + subject + main verb + object, for example:
May I go now?
According to Wishon and Burks (1980) there are two kinds of
meanings of modal may, they are: to show possibility and
permission.
6.3.2. To Show Possibility
Hall (1992:197) states that may expresses possibility. It is
also used for permission in formal usage. It refers to present or
future time. In this sense, the modal may is followed by the simple
form of verb to express possibility. Here, may + not expresses lack
of possibility, for examples:
(39) It may rain, according to the weather report.
(41) You may get a train set for your birthday.
(42) I may not go after all. (lack of possibility)
(43) The report may not be true. (lack of possibility)
In sentence (39) and (40) may shows the possibility, while in
sentence (41) and (42) may shows the lack of possibility because it
is followed by 'not' .
6.3.3. To Show Permission
Hall (1992:197) states that the modal may express possibility.
It is also used for permission in formal usage. It refers to
present or future time. In this sense, modal may is followed by the
simple form of verb to express permission.
Wishon and Burks (1980: 232) say "may also express permission.
It is more formal and polite than can and could. May can be used in
requesting permission, although may and can are used
interchangeably in making requests here are some people who
consider can is unacceptable. Meanwhile, Tracey (1989:163) states
that modal may is used to ask for permission. Here, may + not
expresses that permission is not given, for examples:
(44) May I smoke in your class?
(45) May I use your telephone, please?
(46) May I speak Mr. Law?
(47) You may not leave now.
(48) You may come back at 5. 30. In sentence (44) - (46) may
shows permission or ask for permission, while in sentence (47) may
shows prohibition or permission is not given because it is followed
by 'not' and sentence (48) may shows permission or permission
giving.
6.4. The Function of MightThe modal might can be used to show
permission and possibility. Might is the past form of may. It can
also be used in negative and interrogative form. Hayden, et. al
(1956:113) propose the patterns of modal might as the
followings:
Affirmative: subject + might + main verb + object
For example: He might tell his wife.
Negative: subject + might + not + main verb + object
For example: He might not tell his wife.
Interrogative: might + subject + main verb + object
For example: Might he tells his wife?
According to Wishon and Burks (1980) there are two kinds of
meaning of modal might, they are: to show past possibility and
permission.
6.4.1. To Show Permission
In this sense, the modal might is followed by the simple form of
verb to express permission.
Wishon and Burks (1980:232) state that might is used to ask
permission. It is more formal and more polite than may, can, or
could, for examples:(49) Might I be excuse early?
(50) Might I borrow your money, please?
(51) You might come whenever you want.
In sentence (49) and (50) might shows permission or asks for
permission, while in sentence (5 1) might shows the permission or
permission giving.
6.4.2. To Show Possibility
In this sense, the modal might is followed by the simple form of
verb to express possibility.
Wishon and Burks (1980: 232) state that might express
possibility which is considerably slighter or weaker than expressed
by may. Here, might + not expresses lack of possibility, for
examples:
(52) I might accompany you, but it does not appear very
likely.
(53) It might snow in October, you can never be sure.
(54) They might not be able to come.
(55) I might not accompany you.
In sentence (52) and (53) might shows possibility, while in
sentence (54) and (55) might shows lack of possibility because it
is followed by 'not'.
Might is used to express possibility in reported speech or in
other direct object noun clauses when the verb in the clause is in
the past tense. Hall (1992: 197) says that might is also used for
possibility in the present or future. Generally, the possibility
when might is used is weaker than when may is used. With might
there is often a strong implication of doubt that the action will
take place especially when the auxiliary is stressed, for
examples:
(56) The newspaper said it might rain tomorrow.
(57) We thought that the new director might like to change the
book.
(58) It might rain, but I do not think it will.
In sentence (56) - (58) might shows doubtful possibility.
Wishon and Burks (1980:232) state that the compound or perfect
form of might (might + have + a past participle) expresses past
possibility or speculation, for examples:
(59) We did not speak to him; he might have become angry.
(60) You might have been hurt. (passive form)
(61) Dany might have said that.
In sentence (59) and (61) might shows past possibility and it is
followed by past participle, while in sentence (60) might shows the
past possibility even though it is in passive form.
6.5. The Function of Will 6.5.1. Will
The modal will can be used to show agreement and request. It has
the past form would. It can be used in negative and interrogative
sentence (Wishon and Burks, 1980; 234) propose the pattern of modal
will as the followings.
Affirmative: Subject + will + main verb + object
For example: I will do it for you tomorrow
Negative: Subject + will + not + main verb + object
For example: I will not do it for you tomorrow
Interrogative: Will + subject + main verb + object
For example: Will I do it for you tomorrow
According to Wishon and Burks (1980) there are two of function
of modal will, they are: to show agreement and request.
6.5.1.1. To Show Agreement
In this sense, the modal will is followed by simple form of verb
to express agreement, for example:(61) I will do whatever you think
best
(62) I will act in the play if you will
Except to show agreement the modal will also can be used to
express strong determination and express refusal. For example :(63)
I will pass this course
(64) My uncle will not be there tonight (Simple future
negative)
(65) They think I will accept the decision, but I wont
6.5.1.2. To Show Request
In this sense the modal will is followed by the simple form of
verb to in the present. Thomson and Martinet (1968:138) say that
modal will can be used for request. For examples:
(66) Will you type this, please?
(67) Will you give him this letter?
(68) Will you come to tea tomorrow?
In sentence (66-68) we can see that will is put in the beginning
of the sentences and it is followed by subject. It shows the
request or ask someone to do something.
6.6. The Function of Would
Will has a present or future significance. The past form is
would. The modal would can be used to show request and permission.
It can be used in negative and interrogative sentence.
Thomson and Martinet (1968: 140) propose the pattern of modal
would as the following.
Affirmative: Subject + would + main verb + object
For example: I would like to see Mr. Bean
Negative: Subject + would + not + main verb + object
For example: I would not like to see Mr. Bean
Interrogative: Would + subject + not + main verb + object
For example: Would I like to see Mr. Bean
According to Betty (1993:7) there are two kinds of function of
modal would, they are to show request and permission.
6.6.1. To Show Request
Thomson and Martinet (1968: 140) states that would express
polite request. It is also used for past equivalent of will when
will is used for ordinary future and to express intention. For
examples:(69) He knows he will be late become
He knew he would be late
(70) I said I will help him become
I said that I would help him
(71) He said I won't lend you a penny become
He said that he wouldn't lend me a penny
In sentence (69) we can see that would is express to the past
equivalent of will when will is used for ordinary future. While
(70) and (71) would is similarly is the past equivalent of will
used to express intention
(72) Would you please let me know about this as soon
possible?
(73) Would you mind waiting a moment, please?
Both this sentences we can see that it is show the polite
request.
6.6.2. To Show Permission
Betty (1993:71) states that modal would express asking
permission which use would you mind If I is followed by the simple
past.
For example :(74) Would you mind If I closed the window?
(75) Would you mind If I used the phone?
It is sentences we can responses by no, not at all, no, of
course not, no, that would be fine or "unh-unh". It shows that we
not agree with his/her asking permission.
Except to show permission would also can used to asking some one
else to do something. For example:
(76) Would you mind closing the window
(77) Excuse me? Would you mind repeating that?
In this sentence would you mind is followed by-ing (a gerund)
and we can responses by: no, I'd be happy to, not at all, I'd be
glad to, if we not agree with his/her asking.
6.7. The Function of "Shall6.7.1. Shall
The modal shall can be used to express a request for agreement
or offer to do some thing for someone, to express future action, it
can also be used in negative and interrogative sentence (Wishon and
Burks 1980;233) propose the pattern of modal shall as the
followings :
Affirmative: Subject + shall + main verb + object
For example: I shall answer the telephone for you
Negative: Subject + shall + not + main verb + object
For example: I shall not answer the telephone for you
Interrogative: Shall + subject + main verb + object
For example: Shall I answer the telephone for you
Others examples:(78) Shall I go now and comeback letter?
(79) Shall I give you a present in your birthday?
(80) I shall leave for Spain tomorrow
(81) We shall return in September
In sentence (78) and (79) shall express a request for agreement
while (80) and (81) shall express future action.
According to Thomson and Martinet (1968: 231) shall can be used
to express request for orders or advise, offers, suggestion for
examples:
(82) How shall I cook it?
(83) Which one shall I buy?(84) Shall I wait for you?
(85) Shall we meet at the theatre
In sentence (82) shall express the request in sentence (83)
shall express advice, sentence (84) shall express offers and in
sentence (85) shall express suggestion.
6.8. The Function of Should
The modal should can be used to express duty and to indicate a
correct or sensible action. Should is past form of shall. It can
also be used in negative and interrogative sentence (Thomson and
Martinet, 1968: 143) propose the patterns of modal should as the
followings:
Affirmative: Subject + should + main verb + object
For example: You should go today
Negative: Subject + should + not + main verb + object
For example: You should not (shouldn't) go today
Interrogative: Should + subject + main verb + object
For example: Should you go today?Others examples :(86) You
should pay your debts (duty)
(87) You shouldn't pay tell lies (duty)
(88) Shop should remain open till later in the evening (sensible
action)
(89) You've spelt it wrong. There should be another's (correct
action).
According to Betty (1992:105) the function of should is to
express advice and suggestion. Thomson and Martinet (1968: 231) say
that shall can be used to express request, for orders, or advise,
offers, suggestions. For examples:
(90) My clothes are dirty. I should wash them.
(91) You should have talked to your teacher and gotten some help
from her during the term.
6.9. The Function of "Must"
6.9.1. Must
The modal must can be used to show obligation. The form must is
used for all person in present and future tense. The negative is
must not (mustn't) and interrogative is must I, must you? etc. Must
use no infinitive and no past tense. It is followed by the
infinitive without to. Thomson and Martinet propose the patterns of
modal must as the followings. (Thomson and Martinet,
1968:83)Affirmative: Subject + must + main verb + object
For example: You must go now
Negative: Subject + must + not + main verb + object
For example: You must not go now
Interrogative: Must + subject + main verb + object
For example: Must you go now?
Others examples
(92) You must tell the truth
(93) You must visit the national gallery now
According to Betty (1993:75) must express the necessity. It is
also can be used to express prohibition.
For examples:(94) All applicants must take an entrance exam.
(95) I must talk to her right away
(96) You must not play with matches
(97) You must not use that door
In sentence (94) and (95) must show the necessity, while in
sentence (96) and (97) the modal must express prohibition.
Wren and Martin (1990:14) states that the modal must express
necessity or obligation and fixed determination. For example:
(98) We must obey the laws
(99) One must work or starve
(100) I must have my way in this matter
(101) He must be seventy now
In sentence (98) and (99) the modal must express obligation
while (100) and (101) must express fixed determination.
7.0. Ought / Ought to
The modal ought to have no infinitive and no inflexions. It is
used for all person, ought can be used as a present, past, and
future and is followed by the infinitive with to. The negative is
ought not (oughtn't) and interrogative ought I? (Thomson and
Martinet 1968: 151). Thomson and Martinet propose the patterns of
ought as the followings:
Affirmative: Subject + ought + to + main verb + object
For example: They ought to do it tomorrow
Negative: Subject + ought + not + main verb + object
For example: They ought not to do it tomorrow
Interrogative: Ought + subject + main verb + object
For example: Ought they to do it tomorrow?
Betty (1993:78) states that ought to and should have same
meaning, they express advisability. The meaning ranges in strength
from a suggestion and ought to usually use in present and future
time.
For examples :(102) You ought to study more
(103) The students ought to be reading by now
According to (Wishon and Burks 1980:236) states that ought to
can be used to express desirability, avoidable obligation, or duty.
Actually ought to have same meaning with should. It is relates to
present of future time.
For examples:
(104) You ought to study harder
(105) Drivers ought to obey the speed limit
7.1. The Function of "Dare"
7.1.1. Dare
The auxiliary dare same as brave enough to, as distinct from the
ordinary verb dare. It is generally used in negative and
interrogative sentences. When conjugated without do, it is followed
by an infinitive without to when conjugated with do, it takes an
infinitive with or without to after it.
For examples :(106) He dare not takes such a step?
(107) How dare you contradict me?
(108) He dare not do it
(109) He doesn't dare to speak to me
7.2. The Function of Need
The auxiliary need, denoting necessity or obligation, can be
conjugated with or without do. When conjugated without do, it has
no-s and -ed forms and is used with an infinitive without to only
in negative and interrogative sentences and in sentences that
contain semi negative words like scarcely, and 'hardly'. Wren and
Martin (1990:115)
For examples :
(110) Do you need to go now?
(111) I don't need to meet him
(112) One needs to be careful
7.3. The Function of Used
The auxiliary used (to) express a discontinued habit. Strictly
speaking, used (to) is an anomalous verb in colloquial English,
however. Did you, used to, and did not used to usually replace used
to, and used not. Wren and Martin (1990:115)
For examples :
(113) There used to be house there
(114) I used to live there when I was a boy
According to Thomson and Martinet (1968:91) who state that used
is the past tense of a defective verb which has no present tense.
It has the same from for all person. The affirmative is used. The
negative is used not (usedn't) and interrogative is usedn't
you:
For examples :
(115) His hair used to be black, but it's white now
(116) I usedn't it now
(117) Usedn't she to be a concert pianist?
7. THE FUNCTIONS OF MODAL AUXILIARIES IN TIME MAGAZINE
ARTICLES
In this chapter the writer discusses the function of modals can,
could, may, and might as found in the articles. All the collected
data are analyzed to find out the function of modals can, could,
may, and might in the articles.
Based on the data, there are 139 data of modal can, could, may,
and might found, there are, modal, can (62 data) indicating ability
(23 data), possibility (19 data) permission (8 data), and request
(2 data) ; Modal could (38 data), indicating past ability (19 data)
possibility (19 data), permission (0 data), and request (0 data);
modal may ( 23 data), indicating possibility (23 data), permission
(0 data) ; might (16 data) indicating possibility (16 data) and
permission no data. But, due to the limited time and knowledge of
the writer, the writer just discusses 35 data clearly and other
data can be seen in appendix.
To analyze the data, the writer first classifies the sentences
based on the function of modal can, could, may and might available
in each italic sentence presented here. Then, from the analysis it
can be seen what are the function of modal, can, could, may and
might as found in time magazine article and also what function is
dominantly used in time magazine article.7.1 Modal Can7.1.1 To show
ability
The number of modal can as found in the article of Time magazine
is 62 data, but only 33 data indicate ability. See the Data
(1)-(5):
Data (1) : It is in this context that U.S. officials argue over
whos a friend, whos an enemy and how can tell them a part.
Basically, the data above uses modal can in affirmative form. We
may know that the function of the modal can in data (1) is ability.
Here, it is in this context that U.S. officials argue over whos a
friend, whos an enemy and how can tell then a part. It means that
U.S. officials must be able to compare whos a friend and whos a
friend and whos an enemy.
Data (2) : You cant separate narcotics from security, from
governance.
Basically the data above uses modal can in negative data. We may
know the function of modal can in data (2) is ability. Here you can
separate narcotics from security, from governance. It means that
the first person talk to the second man that the second man not
able to take or loosing narcotics from security, from governance.
Or the people dont have any ability to keep the narcotics away from
the security and the governance.
Data (3) : The president absolutely believes this can be done
through diplomacy.
Basically, the data above uses modal can in affirmative form. We
may know that the function of modal can in data (3) is ability.
Here, the president absolutely believes this can be done through
diplomacy. It means that the president believes that he has ability
to finish case through diplomacy.
Data (4) : He can neither defend nor explain
Basically, the data above uses modal can in negative form. We
may know that the function of modal can in data (4) is ability.
Here, He can neither defend nor explain. It means the man isnt able
to do anything or he isnt able to make resistance to give
explanation.
Data (5) : Even so, there's only so much that can be learned
Basically, the data above uses modal can in affirmative from. We
may know that the function of modal can in data's is "ability"
here, even so, there's only so much that can be learned. It means
there's many things that be able to learn.
The five data given above have the same function and other data
that have the same functions can be seen in appendix.
7.1.2. To Show Possibility
The number of modal can as found in the article of Time Magazine
is 62 data, but only 19 data indicate possibility. See the Data (6)
(10):
Data (6) : The more money the traffickers make, the more they
can give to Taliban.
Basically, data above uses modal can. It is in affirmative form.
We make know the function of modal can in data (6) is possibility.
Here, the more money the traffickers make, the more they can buy
and the more dangerous the insurgency becomes. It means that if the
traffickers make more money, they may give more to Taliban.
Data (7) : He has three laptops full of music in his living room
but cant work I- tunes on any them.
Basically, the data above uses modal can negative form. We may
know that the function of modal can in data (7) is possibility.
Here, He has three laptops full of music in his living room but
cant work I-tunes on any of them. It means that the three laptops
may be no have complete facilities or none of the three laptops was
broken. So cant work I-tunes on any of them to work I-tunes.
Data (8) : Rubin was worried that he might have to tinker more
than unusual with some of the songs in the singers absence but
after listening to the material again, he decide he was wrong. I
dont think Ill need to do much. I mean how much can I really
improve Johnny cash?.
Basically, the data above uses modal can in interrogative form.
We may know the function of modal can in data (8) is possibility.
Here, how much can I really improve Johnny cash? It means that the
questioner asks Johnny cash about the possibility improve with
Johnny cash.
Data (9) : This is not to say the hipster writers are bad
parents or writers ; their work can be wise and moving. Basically,
the data above uses modal can in affirmative form. We may know that
the function of modal can in data (9) is possibility. Here, this is
not to say the hipster writers are bad parents or writers ; their
work can be wise and moving. It means that not all of the hipster
writers are bad parents or writes but its possible that in any time
they will change to be wiser and make a movement in their work.
Data (10) : Moms and dads can be unique, creative, individual
after they have kids.
Basically, the data above uses modal can in affirmative form. We
may know that the function of modal can in data (10) is
possibility. Here, moms dads can be unique, creative individual
after they have kids. It means after the couple has kids, they may
be have more unique, creativities and individuals. That not all of
the hipster writers are bad parents or writes but its possible that
in. The five data given above have the same function and data that
have the same function can be seen in appendix. 7.1.3. To Show
Permission
The number of modal can as found in article of Time magazine is
62 data, but only 8 data indicate permission. See the data (11)
(15):
Data (11) : It makes one wonder when the leadership of the
church will wake up and allow priests to Marry, 50 they can enjoy
life with a companion as God and nature intend.
Basically, the data above uses modal can in positive form. We
may know that the function of modal can in data (11) is permission.
Here, it make one wonder when the leadership of the church will
wake up and allow priests to Marry, so they can enjoy life with a
companion as God and nature intend. It means that if the leadership
of church gives the permission to Marry and they can enjoy their
life whit their companion so that case will be call a wonder or
curiosity.
Data (12) : You can now access that document securely from any
P.C. on Bizhubs network.
Basically, the data above uses modal can in affirmative form. We
may know that the function of modal can in data (12) is permission.
Here, you can new access that document securely from any P.C. on
Bizhubs network. It means that now days they given allowance time
to access the document securely from any P. C. in all of Bizhubs
network.
Data (13) : If this counsel or he wishes pursue any option, they
can contact us.
Basically, the data above uses modal can in affirmative form. We
may that the function of modal can in data (13) is permission.
Here, if his counsel or he wish to pursue any option, they can
contact us. It means that the person and his counsel is allowed to
give information if they decide to pursue any option.
Data (14) : You can almost hear him pleading to his bosses at
ABC network.
Basically, the data above uses modal can in affirmative form. We
may know that the function of modal can in data (14) is permission.
Here, you can almost hear him pleading to his bosses at ABC
network. It means allowance to hear some ones plea to his bosses at
ABC network.
Data (15) : You can help
Basically, the data above uses modal can in affirmative form. We
may know that the function of modal can in data (15) is permission.
Here, you can help. It means that you allowed to help someone.
The five data given above have the same function and data that
have the same function can be seen in appendix.
7.1.4. To show request
The number of modal can as found in the article of time is 62
data but only 2 data indicate request. See the data (16) (17):
Data (16) : In cyberspace and on newsstands, writers are out to
prove that parenting or at least parents, can be cool
Basically, the data above uses modal can in affirmative form. We
may know that the function of modal can in data (16) is request.
Here, in cyberspace and on newsstands, writers are out to prove
that parenting or at least parents, can be cool. It means that the
writers ask not to prove if the parenting or at least parents are
able to be cool.
Data (17) : Can I stop now?
Basically, the data above uses modal can in question form. We
may know that the function of modal can in data (17) is request
here, can I stop now? It means that a person ask someone if he may
stop from his work.
7.2 Modal Could
7.2.1 To Show Ability
The number of modal could as found in the article of Time
Magazine is 38 data but only 19 data indicate ability. See the data
(18)-(21)
Data (18) : He had been invited to Manhattan to prove that he
could be of value in America's war on terrorism. Basically, the
data above uses modal could in affirmative form. We may know that
the function of modal could in data (18) is "ability". Here, he had
been invited to Manhattan to prove that he could be of value in
America on terrorism. It means that he was asked by American to
Manhattan because America believe that he able to give the opinion
and value toward America's in terrorism.
Data (19) : Noorzai clearly thought he could offer all that.
Basically, the data above uses modal could in affirmative form.
We may know that the function of modal could in data (19) is
"ability". Here, Noorzai clearly thought he could offer all that.
It means that Noorzai has the ability to offer all that. It means
that Noorzai has ability to offer all that.
Data (20) : He could have provided a stabilizing role in the
south. Basically, the data above uses modal could in affirmative
form. We may know that the function of modal could in data (20) is
"ability". Here, He could have provided a stabilizing role in the
south. It means he able to provide the stabilizing role in the
south.
Data (21) : She is the only who could reasonable expect to have
a political future beyond 2008. Basically, the data above uses
modal could in affirmative form. We may know that the function of
modal could in data (21) is "ability". Here, She is the only who
could reasonable expect to have a political future beyond 2008. It
means that the society believe she able to expect to have a
political in the future beyond 2008
7.2.2 To Show Possibility.
The number of modal could as found in the article of Time
Magazine is 38 data but only 19 data indicate possibility. See the
data (22)-(25).
Data (22) : But could it be that senior officials in Washington
were still debating whether Noorzai was an intelligence asset worth
preserving?
Basically, the data above uses modal could in interrogative
form. We may know that the function of modal could in data (22) is
possibility. Here, but could it be that senior officials in
Washington were still debating whether Noorzai was an intelligence
asset worth preserving? It means that Noorzai's ability to asset
worth preserve still debating in Washington.
Data (23) : Brian then told Noorzai if he didn't want to go to
U.S the meeting could take place in Dubai or Pakistan. Basically,
the data above uses modal could in affirmative form. We may know
that the function of modal could in data (23) is "possibility".
Here, Brian then told Noorzai if he didn't want to go to US the
meeting could take place in Dubai or Pakistan It means that the
meeting is uncertain to the place if Noorzai didn't go to the US it
will be had in Dubai or Pakistan
Data (24) : Firm is filled with models of products that could
built.Basically, the data above uses modal could in affirmative
form. We may know that the function of modal could in data (24) is
"possibility". Here, Firm is filled with models of products that
could built. It means that firm is filled with the various of
product can be improve.
Data (25) : Imagine electronics so cheap you could put them in
disposable packing.
Basically, the data above uses modal could in affirmative form.
We may know that the function of modal could in (25) is
"possibility". Here, Imagine electronics so cheap you could put
them in disposable packing. It means that the electronics are very
cheap so you may be put them out
The five data given above have the same function and other data
that have the same function can be seen in appendix.
7.3 Modal May7.3.1. To Show Possibility
The number of modal may as found in the articles of the Magazine
is 23 data and all of these data are indicating possibility. See
the data (26)-(30).
Data (26) : That may be true, but if anyone in London cares,
theyre keeping mighty quite
Basically, the data above uses modal may in affirmative form. We
may know that the function of modal may in data (26) is
possibility. Here, that may be true, but if anyone in London cares,
theyre keeping mighty quite. It means that the case true if Londons
people keep quiet in their place.
Data (27) : Although both bush and Rice Deny they any hostile
intent, there is anxiety in some foreign-policy circles that even
as it struggles to avoid losing one war in Iraq, the administration
may provoke another one across the border in Iran.
Basically, the data above uses modal may in affirmative form. We
may know that the function of modal may in data (27) is
possibility. Here, although both bush and rice Deny they have any
hostile intent, there is anxiety in some foreign-policy circles
that even as it struggles to avoid losing one war in Iraq, the
administration may provoke another one across the border in Iran.
It means that the administration is possible as provoke to across
the border in Iran.
Data (28) : That may be starting for change. Basically, the data
above uses modal may in affirmative form we may know that the
function of modal may in data (28) is possibility. Here, that may
be starting for change. It means that may be starting to change. It
mans there are some signs that make it is possible to make a
change.
Data (29) : He may not have appreciated the poetic justice any
more then the legal justice on display in the Libby verdict.
Basically, the data above uses modal may in affirmative form we
may know that the function of modal may in data (29) is
possibility. Here, He may not have appreciated the poetic justice
any more then the legal justice on display in the Libby verdict. It
means that on display in Libby verdict he isnt possible to give
appreciation to the poetic justice more than the legal justice.
Data (30) : Even if Noorzai wasnt fully reliable, it is fair to
ask why his offer wasnt taken-up Washington may have scored a
public victory in the war on drugs with his arrest.
Basically, the data above uses modal may in affirmative form. We
may know that the function of modal may in data (30) is
possibility. Here, even if Noorzai wasnt fully reliable, it is fair
to ask why his offer wasnt taken-up Washington my have scored a
public victory in the war on drugs with his arrest. It means that
Washington possible natural to receive scored as public victory n
the war on drugs with they arrest.
The 5 data given above have the same function and other data
that have same function can be seen in appendix
7.4.Might
7.4.1 To show possibility.
The number of modal might as found in articles of "Time
magazine" is 16 data all of these data are indicating possibility.
See the data (31)-(35).
Data (31) : To provide information on individuals who might be
helping to steer money to be Taliban and Al- Qaeda.
Basically, the data above uses modal might in affirmative form
we may know that the function of modal might in data (31) is
possibility. Here To provide information on individuals who might
be helping to steer money to be Taliban and Al- Qaeda. It means
that the information given to do the individuals is possible to
steer money for them to be Taliban and Al-Qaeda.
Data (32) : He might not have been so ready to hop on a plane.
Basically, the data above uses modal might in affirmative form we
may know that the function of modal might in data (32) is
possibility. Here, He might not have been so ready to hop on a
plane. It means , she/he not yet able to ply in to plane.
Data (33) : The police to investigate reports that labour party
sources might be offering honors.
Basically, the data above uses modal might in affirmative form
we may know that the function of modal might in sentence (33) is
possibility. Here, The police to investigate reports that labour
party sources might be offering honors. It means the governments
ask police to make the report from labour party which give the
respect may be.
Data (34) : There's strong link being made in the media by
people who feel Iraq is still unfinished business and that this
might be next big thing.
Basically, the data above uses modal might in affirmative form
we may know that the function of modal might in sentence (34) is
possibility. Here, There's strong link being made in the media by
people who feel Iraq is still unfinished business and that this
might be next big thing. It means the strong link probably become
the big thing in the future.
Data (35) : He might be able to implicate major figures in
Afghanistan. Basically, the data above uses modal might in
affirmative form we may know that the function of modal might in
data (35) is possibility. Here, He might be able to implicate major
figures in Afghanistan. It means ,some one may have ability to make
his self as the major figures in Afghanistan.
The 5 data given above have the same function and other data
that have same function can be seen in appendix
There are 139 data in the Time Magazine, 62 data belong to modal
can, 38 data belong to modal could, 23 data belong to modal may,
and 16 data belong to modal might. Based on the number above the
percentage of modal can , could , may and might are as the
following:
a. modal can
b. modal could
c. modal may
d. modal might
The variation function of can, could, may, and might.
canability
possibility
permission
request33 data
19 data
8 data
2 data
couldability
possibility
permission
request19 data
19 data
0 data
0 data
maypossibility
permission 23 data
0 data
mightpossibility
permission16 data
0 data
Total139 data
So from the variation function of can, could, may and might in
the Time Magazine articles, We can seen what function is dominantly
used in the Time Magazine articles.
There are 139 data can be found in Time Magazine articles
indicate 52 data are functions of ability, 77 data are functions of
possibility, 8 data are functions of permission, and 2 data are
functions of request. So from the data analysis, It can be seen
that the dominantly function of modal used in the Time Magazine
articles is The Function of Possibility.
Based on the number above, the percentage function of ability,
possibility, permission and request are as the following:
a) Abilitys function
b) Possibilitys function
c) Permissions function
d) Requests function
8. ConclusionsHaving analyzed data, the writer tries to draw
some conclusion. The first conclusion is that there are four modals
that analyzed according to their function. Modal can, can be used
as ability, possibility, permission, and request. Modal could, can
be used as ability, possibility, permission, and request. Modal
may, can be used as possibility and permission. Modal might, can be
used as past possibility and permission.
The second, there are 139 data that can be found. 52 data
indicating ability function, 77 data indicating possibility
function, 8 data indicating permission function, and 2 data
indicating request function.
The third is that the function of possibility is dominantly used
in Time Magazine articles can be shown by 77 data (55.39 %).
The fourth is that the modal may and might which can be used to
show permission in Time Magazine articles can not be found.
The fifth the function of ability by 55 data (39.56 %),
possibility by 77 data (55.39%), permission by 8 data (5.75%), and
finally request by 2 data (1.43%).
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