Tag: auxiliary verbs

Auxiliary Verbs in English: What They Are, When to Use Them, and How to Master Them Easily

Mastering Auxiliary Verbs Made Simple

Are you confused about words like “is,” “are,” “have,” “do,” and “will”? These little words are called auxiliary verbs—also known as helping verbs—and they are everywhere in English! From asking questions to talking about the past, future, or even possibilities, auxiliary verbs are essential building blocks in English grammar.

Understanding auxiliary verbs in English is one of the easiest ways to boost your speaking, writing, and comprehension skills—no matter if you’re just starting or already learning advanced grammar. These helping verbs support main verbs to form correct tenses, ask questions, make negatives, and much more.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn:

What auxiliary verbs are
When and how to use them in daily life
Easy rules, tips, and common examples
Common mistakes learners make and how to avoid them

Whether you’re preparing for a test, improving your fluency, or just curious about how English works, this step-by-step guide will give you everything you need.

Let’s get started with the basics: what exactly are auxiliary verbs?

What Are Auxiliary Verbs? Explanation and Overview

Auxiliary verbs, also called helping verbs, are special verbs in English that work with the main verb in a sentence. They help to show the tense, voice, mood, or whether a sentence is positive, negative, or a question.

📌 Simple Definition:

Auxiliary verbs are verbs that add meaning to the main verb. They help show when something happened, if it’s a question, or if it’s not true.

Some of the most common auxiliary verbs in English are:

Be (am, is, are, was, were, been, being)
Have (has, have, had)
Do (do, does, did)
Modal auxiliary verbs (can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, would)

These helping verbs are used all the time in everyday English conversations, writing, and speaking.

💡 Why Are They Called Helping Verbs?

Because they “help” the main verb do its job! For example:

I am eating dinner. (“am” helps “eating”)
She has finished her work. (“has” helps “finished”)
Do you like ice cream? (“do” helps ask a question)

🧠 Key Point:

Without auxiliary verbs, it would be hard to:

Make questions (Do you speak English?)
Talk in the past, present, or future (She has gone home.)
Show negative sentences (They did not go.)
Use continuous and perfect tenses (He is working, We have seen that movie.)

In short, auxiliary verbs are like the secret engine that powers English grammar. They may be small words, but they do a big job!

Everyday Sentences Using Auxiliary Verbs: 10 Common Examples

Auxiliary verbs are part of our daily speech and writing. Whether you’re having a casual chat, writing an email, or watching a movie, you’ll hear and see them all the time. Below are 10 simple and common examples of auxiliary verbs used in real-life situations.

🔟 Common Sentences Using Auxiliary Verbs:

I am studying for my test right now.
👉 (“am” helps the main verb “studying” to show present continuous tense.)
She has finished her homework.
👉 (“has” supports “finished” to show present perfect tense.)
They were watching a movie when I called.
👉 (“were” helps show an action happening in the past.)
Do you like chocolate?
👉 (“do” helps form a question.)
He does not eat vegetables.
👉 (“does” is used to make a negative sentence.)
We will visit Grandma tomorrow.
👉 (“will” is a modal auxiliary that shows future tense.)
Can you help me with this bag?
👉 (“can” shows ability or possibility.)
It has been raining all morning.
👉 (“has been” shows a continuous action from the past to now.)
Did you see that movie?
👉 (“did” is the past tense auxiliary used to ask a question.)
You should drink more water.
👉 (“should” gives advice.)

These examples make it clear how auxiliary verbs work with main verbs to express time, action, mood, or intention.

When you’re speaking or writing in English, these helping verbs are what keep your sentences clear, correct, and complete.

When to Use Auxiliary Verbs: All the Key Situations

Auxiliary verbs play a big role in making English sentences work. You’ll find them in many different situations—from simple statements to questions and even polite requests. Below is a complete list of all the main situations where you need auxiliary verbs.

📌 1. To Show Verb Tenses

Auxiliary verbs are needed to form different tenses like:

Present continuous: She is eating lunch.
Past perfect: They had finished the project.
Future simple: I will call you later.

📌 2. To Make Questions

Use do, does, did or modals like can, will, should to form questions:

Do you like ice cream?
Did he arrive on time?
Can she swim?

📌 3. To Make Negative Sentences

Add not after the auxiliary verb to make a sentence negative:

I do not know the answer.
She has not called me back.
They won’t (will not) go to the party.

📌 4. To Emphasize Something

Auxiliaries like do/does/did are used for stress:

I do want to help you!
She did tell the truth.

📌 5. To Add Politeness

Modal auxiliary verbs are great for polite requests and suggestions:

Could you please help me?
You should see a doctor.

📌 6. To Talk About Ability, Possibility, Permission, and Obligation

Use modal auxiliaries:

She can speak three languages. (ability)
You may leave early today. (permission)
We must wear seatbelts. (obligation)
It might rain later. (possibility)

📌 7. To Form Passive Voice

Use be + past participle:

The cake was baked by Grandma.
The homework is done every day.

📌 8. To Make Short Answers

Use auxiliary verbs in short replies:

Do you like coffee? – Yes, I do.
Has she left? – No, she hasn’t.

📌 9. To Avoid Repeating the Main Verb

This is called verb ellipsis:

He studies more than I do.
She sings better than he does.

As you can see, auxiliary verbs are used in almost every type of sentence in English! Mastering them will help you speak clearly, write correctly, and understand better.

How to Conjugate Verbs in the Auxiliary Verb Structure: Conjugation Rules

Understanding how to conjugate auxiliary verbs is essential for building correct sentences in English. Whether you’re talking about the past, present, or future, conjugation tells us who is doing the action and when it happens.

Let’s break it down in a simple and friendly way, with easy-to-remember rules and examples for each type of auxiliary verb.

🔹 1. Conjugating “Be” (am, is, are, was, were, be, being, been)

The verb “be” is one of the most flexible auxiliaries. It’s used to form continuous tenses and passive voice.

✅ Present tense:

I am,
You/we/they are,
He/she/it is

Examples:

I am studying.
They are playing.
She is sleeping.

✅ Past tense:

I/he/she/it was,
You/we/they were

Examples:

He was working.
We were dancing.

✅ Past participle:

Been

Examples:

She has been to Paris.

✅ Present participle:

Being

Examples:

He is being polite.

🔹 2. Conjugating “Have” (have, has, had)

The auxiliary “have” is used in perfect tenses.

✅ Present tense:

I/you/we/they have,
He/she/it has

Examples:

I have seen that movie.
She has done her homework.

✅ Past tense:

Had (used for all subjects)

Examples:

They had eaten before I arrived.

🔹 3. Conjugating “Do” (do, does, did)

The auxiliary “do” helps in making questions, negatives, and emphasis.

✅ Present tense:

I/you/we/they do,
He/she/it does

Examples:

Do you like pizza?
He does not watch TV.

✅ Past tense:

Did (used for all subjects)

Examples:

Did they win the match?
I did go to the meeting!

🔹 4. Modal Auxiliary Verbs (will, can, may, must, shall, might, would, should, could, etc.)

These verbs are special because they never change form—no matter what subject you use.

Examples:

She can swim.
We should leave now.
I will help you.

📝 Important: Modals are always followed by the base form of the main verb (not the –ing or past form).
✅ She can sing
❌ She can singing

🔁 Summary of Auxiliary Verb Conjugation:

Auxiliary	Present Tense	Past Tense	Past Participle	Notes
Be	am, is, are	was, were	been	For continuous & passive use
Have	have, has	had	had	For perfect tenses
Do	do, does	did	done (main verb)	For questions & negatives
Modals	will, can, may, etc.	(unchanged)	—	Followed by base verb only

With these simple conjugation rules in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to build sentences that are grammatically correct and easy to understand.

Auxiliary Verb Grammar Rules You Need to Know

Auxiliary verbs follow specific grammar rules that guide how we build sentences in English. These helping verbs are the backbone of many tenses and structures. Whether you’re creating questions, making negative sentences, or forming different tenses, these grammar rules will help you sound clear, confident, and correct.

Let’s explore the must-know rules of auxiliary verbs in a simple and easy-to-remember format!

✅ 1. Auxiliary Verbs Come Before the Main Verb

In most cases, the auxiliary verb comes before the base form of the main verb.

Examples:

She is eating lunch.
They have finished the project.
I will travel tomorrow.

✅ 2. Use Auxiliary Verbs to Form Questions

In yes/no and WH-questions, the auxiliary verb comes at the beginning of the sentence.

Examples:

Do you like mangoes?
Have they arrived?
Is he coming?
What does she want?

✅ 3. Use “Not” with Auxiliary Verbs to Make Negatives

To make a sentence negative, simply add “not” after the auxiliary verb.

Examples:

He is not ready.
They do not agree.
We have not eaten.

➡️ Contracted forms are common in speech and informal writing:

He isn’t ready.
They don’t agree.
We haven’t eaten.

✅ 4. Only One Main Verb Per Sentence (Unless Using Verb Phrases)

You should only use one main verb, but it can be part of a verb phrase with auxiliaries.

Example (Correct):

She has been working hard.

Example (Incorrect):

She has been work working hard. ❌

✅ 5. Use the Right Form of “Be,” “Have,” and “Do” Based on Tense and Subject

Remember to match the auxiliary to both the tense and the subject.

Examples:

I am studying. ✅
He is studying. ✅
They are studying. ✅

Wrong examples:

He am studying. ❌
They is studying. ❌

✅ 6. Modal Verbs Must Be Followed by the Base Verb

Modal auxiliaries never change and should always be followed by the base form of the verb.

Correct:

She can drive.
We might go.

Incorrect:

She can drives. ❌
We might going. ❌

✅ 7. Use Helping Verbs to Emphasize Meaning

Auxiliaries can be used for emphasis in positive statements.

Examples:

I do want to help you.
She did complete the task on time.

✅ 8. Use “Be” in Passive Voice

When the subject is not doing the action but receiving it, we use the passive voice.

Formula: be + past participle
Examples:

The cake was baked by grandma.
The house is being cleaned now.

✅ 9. Use “Have” in Perfect Tenses

The auxiliary “have” helps to show completed actions with a link to the present or another point in time.

Examples:

I have seen that movie.
She had left before I came.

✅ 10. Don’t Repeat Auxiliary Verbs Unless Necessary

In short answers or questions, repeat the auxiliary only if needed for clarity.

Examples:

He can dance, and she can too. ✅
He has gone, hasn’t he? ✅

📌 Final Note:

Auxiliary verbs make English grammar clear, flexible, and expressive. By following these rules, you can talk about time, ask questions, express ability or necessity, and create strong sentences.

Important Tips for Using Auxiliary Verbs Correctly

Mastering auxiliary verbs isn’t just about memorizing rules—it’s also about using them naturally in real conversations and writing. Here are some simple but powerful tips to help you use auxiliary verbs confidently and correctly in everyday English. These tips are especially helpful for English learners at all levels.

✅ 1. Always Match the Auxiliary Verb with the Subject

One of the most common errors is using the wrong auxiliary for the subject. Pay attention to singular and plural subjects, and make sure the verb agrees.

Examples:

She is playing. ✅
They are coming. ✅
He has gone. ✅
(Not: She are playing / They is coming / He have gone ❌)

✅ 2. Use Contractions in Conversation

Native speakers often use contractions with auxiliary verbs when speaking or in casual writing. They sound natural and fluent.

Examples:

He’s (he is) reading a book.
They’ve (they have) arrived.
I’ll (I will) call you.

➡️ But avoid contractions in formal writing or when clarity is more important.

✅ 3. Use the Base Form of the Main Verb After Auxiliaries

Whether you’re using “do,” “does,” “did,” or a modal verb like “can” or “will,” the verb that follows must be in its base form.

Correct:

Do you like ice cream?
She can sing well.

Incorrect:

Do you likes ice cream? ❌
She can sings well. ❌

✅ 4. Don’t Use Two Auxiliary Verbs Without a Need

Some learners get confused and use double auxiliaries by mistake. Only use multiple auxiliaries when they’re required for tense or voice.

Correct:

She has been working since morning. (Perfect Continuous)
The cake is being baked now. (Passive)

Incorrect:

She has is working. ❌

✅ 5. In Negative Sentences, Use Only One Auxiliary with “Not”

Don’t overuse “not” or repeat auxiliaries in negative sentences.

Correct:

I do not like spinach.
He is not coming.

Incorrect:

I do not doesn’t like spinach. ❌
He is not isn’t coming. ❌

✅ 6. Use Helping Verbs to Add Emphasis Carefully

Auxiliary verbs like “do,” “does,” and “did” can be used to add emphasis, but don’t overuse them.

Examples:

I do care about your opinion.
She did enjoy the party.

Only use this when you want to show strong feelings or correct someone.

✅ 7. Learn the Common Verb Phrases

Many auxiliary verbs are used in common phrases and patterns. Learning these will make you sound more fluent.

Examples:

Have to go → I have to go now.
Be going to → She is going to travel next week.
Should have → You should have told me earlier.

✅ 8. Use “Do” for Questions and Negatives in Present and Past Simple

For the simple present and past tenses, use “do,” “does,” or “did” as auxiliaries in questions and negatives—even when there’s no visible auxiliary in the positive sentence.

Examples:

He plays soccer. → Does he play soccer?
I went to school. → Did you go to school?
We don’t like it. ✅
(Not: We like not it. ❌)

✅ 9. Practice Short Answers Using Auxiliary Verbs

Short answers often use only the auxiliary verb.

Examples:

Are you hungry? → Yes, I am.
Do they know? → No, they don’t.
Has she called? → Yes, she has.

✅ 10. Read, Listen, and Speak as Much as You Can

The best way to improve your use of auxiliary verbs is to practice often. Read stories, listen to conversations, and speak every day. The more you’re exposed to natural English, the better you’ll get at using these helping verbs the right way.

Common Mistakes with Auxiliary Verbs and How to Fix Them

Even advanced learners can slip up when using auxiliary verbs. These helping verbs may seem simple, but small mistakes can cause big misunderstandings. Let’s look at the most common errors English learners make—and how you can easily fix them with the right examples and explanations.

❌ Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Auxiliary Verb for the Subject

Some learners mix up “do,” “does,” and “did” or confuse “is,” “are,” and “was” based on the subject. The auxiliary must always match the subject in number and tense.

Wrong:

He do his homework every day.
They was happy yesterday.

Correct:

He does his homework every day. ✅
They were happy yesterday. ✅

❌ Mistake 2: Using the Main Verb in the Wrong Form After an Auxiliary

After most auxiliary verbs (like do, does, did, will, can), the main verb must stay in the base form, not past or third-person.

Wrong:

She can plays the guitar.
Did you went to school?

Correct:

She can play the guitar. ✅
Did you go to school? ✅

❌ Mistake 3: Repeating Auxiliaries

Sometimes learners double up on auxiliary verbs when it’s not needed, especially in negative or question forms.

Wrong:

I don’t didn’t like the movie.
Do does he live here?

Correct:

I didn’t like the movie. ✅
Does he live here? ✅

❌ Mistake 4: Using “Not” Without an Auxiliary

You can’t use “not” for negation without an auxiliary verb (except for the verb “be”).

Wrong:

She not go to school.
I not understand this.

Correct:

She does not go to school. ✅
I do not understand this. ✅

❌ Mistake 5: Forgetting the Auxiliary in Questions

In English, almost all questions need an auxiliary verb, especially in the present or past simple tense.

Wrong:

You like pizza?
She came yesterday?

Correct:

Do you like pizza? ✅
Did she come yesterday? ✅

❌ Mistake 6: Using the Wrong Tense with the Auxiliary

Mixing tenses between the auxiliary and main verb is a very common mistake.

Wrong:

He is went to the park.
They have eat dinner.

Correct:

He went to the park. ✅ (no auxiliary needed)
They have eaten dinner. ✅

❌ Mistake 7: Overusing “Do” in Positive Sentences

You only need “do” in positive sentences if you’re adding emphasis.

Wrong:

I do like ice cream every day.

Correct (only for emphasis):

I do like ice cream! ✅ (to show strong feeling)

❌ Mistake 8: Forgetting Short Answers

Many learners repeat the whole sentence when just the auxiliary is enough.

Wrong:

Yes, I am hungry right now.
No, I do not want to go.

Better:

Yes, I am. ✅
No, I don’t. ✅

❌ Mistake 9: Using Two Tenses Together Incorrectly

Some learners accidentally combine present and past tenses when using auxiliaries.

Wrong:

He is went shopping.
She has ate lunch.

Correct:

He went shopping. ✅
She has eaten lunch. ✅

❌ Mistake 10: Missing “Be” in Passive Voice

In the passive voice, “be” is essential as the auxiliary verb. Skipping it makes the sentence incorrect.

Wrong:

The cake baked by my mom.

Correct:

The cake was baked by my mom. ✅

By keeping an eye on these common mistakes, you can start using auxiliary verbs more naturally and correctly in your daily English. You’re doing great—keep practicing and learning!

20 Auxiliary Verb Example Sentences for Better Understanding

Here are 20 clear and practical example sentences using auxiliary verbs in different tenses and situations. These examples will help you see how helping verbs work with the main verb to express questions, negatives, emphasis, or actions in progress.

✅ Examples with “Be” (am, is, are, was, were, be, been, being)

She is watching a movie right now.
We are going to the park later.
I am feeling tired today.
The dog was barking loudly last night.
They were studying for the exam.

✅ Examples with “Have” (have, has, had)

He has finished his homework.
I have been to London twice.
They had already left when we arrived.
She has lived here for five years.
We have just eaten dinner.

✅ Examples with “Do” (do, does, did)

Do you like chocolate?
She does her work on time.
I did call you yesterday.
Does he play cricket on Sundays?
They don’t understand the rules.

✅ Examples with Modals (can, will, should, must, may, might, etc.)

You can speak English very well.
We will meet you at the station.
She should study more for the test.
I must finish my project today.
He might come to the party.

Each of these examples shows how auxiliary verbs help express time, possibility, action, and more. Notice how the main verb stays in the base or correct participle form depending on the auxiliary used.

When you read and repeat these sentences aloud, you’re not just learning—you’re building strong sentence patterns for your daily communication. 💪

Auxiliary Verbs Fill-in-the-Blank Exercise: Test Your Knowledge

_____ you like ice cream?
She _____ finished her homework already.
They _____ going to the concert tonight.
I _____ not understand the question.
He _____ play basketball every weekend.
We _____ been waiting for an hour.
_____ he know the answer?
She _____ studying when I called her.
You _____ see the new movie tomorrow.
They _____ not arrived yet.
_____ you help me with this task?
He _____ been to Paris twice.
I _____ do my best in the exam.
She _____ singing very well.
We _____ finished dinner before 8 pm.
They _____ not like spicy food.
_____ she coming to the party?
I _____ seen that show before.
He _____ able to fix the car.
We _____ going to visit our grandparents next week.

Check Your Answers for the Auxiliary Verbs Exercise

Do you like ice cream?
She has finished her homework already.
They are going to the concert tonight.
I do not understand the question.
He does play basketball every weekend.
We have been waiting for an hour.
Does he know the answer?
She was studying when I called her.
You will see the new movie tomorrow.
They have not arrived yet.
Can you help me with this task?
He has been to Paris twice.
I will do my best in the exam.
She is singing very well.
We had finished dinner before 8 pm.
They do not like spicy food.
Is she coming to the party?
I have seen that show before.
He is able to fix the car.
We are going to visit our grandparents next week.

Great job if you got most of these right! Practice makes perfect, so try making your own sentences with these auxiliaries to build confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Auxiliary Verbs

1. What are auxiliary verbs in English?

Auxiliary verbs, also called helping verbs, are verbs used together with the main verb to form different tenses, questions, negatives, or to add meaning like possibility or necessity.

2. How many auxiliary verbs are there?

There are three main auxiliary verbs in English: be, have, and do. Additionally, modal verbs like can, will, should, must, may, might also function as auxiliary verbs.

3. Can auxiliary verbs stand alone as the main verb?

No, auxiliary verbs cannot usually stand alone. They always help the main verb in the sentence. However, sometimes the verb do can be the main verb, like in “I do my homework.”

4. What is the difference between auxiliary verbs and modal verbs?

Auxiliary verbs (be, have, do) help form tenses, negatives, and questions. Modal verbs (can, will, should, etc.) express ability, permission, obligation, or possibility.

5. How do auxiliary verbs help form questions?

Auxiliary verbs usually come before the subject in questions. For example, “Are you coming?” or “Did she finish the work?”

6. Do all sentences need auxiliary verbs?

No, simple sentences can be formed without auxiliaries, like “She runs fast.” But auxiliaries are needed to form questions, negatives, continuous tenses, perfect tenses, and emphasis.

7. How do I know which auxiliary verb to use?

It depends on the tense and the sentence type:

Use be for continuous tenses and passive voice.
Use have for perfect tenses.
Use do for questions, negatives, and emphasis in simple present and past.
Use modals to express mood or possibility.

8. Are auxiliary verbs used in negative sentences?

Yes, auxiliary verbs combine with “not” to form negatives, like “She is not ready” or “They do not agree.”

9. Can multiple auxiliary verbs be used in one sentence?

Yes, sometimes sentences use more than one auxiliary verb. For example, “She has been working all day,” where has and been both help the main verb working.

10. Are auxiliary verbs important for learning English?

Absolutely! Understanding auxiliary verbs helps you form correct questions, negatives, different tenses, and express ideas clearly and accurately.

Key Takeaways: Auxiliary Verbs Summary and Important Points

Auxiliary verbs (helping verbs) assist the main verb to form questions, negatives, tenses, and emphasis.
The three main auxiliary verbs are be, have, and do.
Modal verbs like can, will, should, must, may, might also act as auxiliaries to express ability, possibility, permission, or obligation.
Use be to form continuous (progressive) tenses and passive voice (e.g., “She is running,” “The book was written.”)
Use have for perfect tenses (e.g., “They have finished,” “I had seen.”)
Use do to form questions, negatives, and for emphasis in simple present and past tenses (e.g., “Do you like it?”, “I did call you.”)
Auxiliary verbs often come before the subject in questions (e.g., “Are you ready?”) and combine with not for negatives (e.g., “He is not coming.”)
Modal auxiliary verbs express mood, necessity, or possibility (e.g., “You should study,” “She might come.”)
Sometimes multiple auxiliaries are used together, like “has been” or “will be.”
Auxiliary verbs do not usually stand alone; they always help the main verb.
Mastering auxiliary verbs improves your ability to form correct and natural English sentences.

Conclusion: Mastering Auxiliary Verbs for Confident English Speaking and Writing

Auxiliary verbs are the unsung heroes of English grammar. They give your sentences power and clarity by helping you ask questions, express time, form negatives, and show possibility or necessity. Whether you are a beginner just starting or an advanced learner aiming for fluency, mastering auxiliary verbs is essential for speaking and writing English naturally and confidently.

Keep practicing the use of be, have, do, and modal auxiliaries like can and should in your daily conversations and writing. The more you use them correctly, the more fluent and confident you will become.

To deepen your understanding and get more practical tips on English grammar and language learning, don’t forget to visit my blog at mylanguageclassesblog.wordpress.com.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for detailed lessons, exercises, and more: youtube.com/@mylanguageclassesofficial.

Keep learning, keep practicing, and soon you’ll see how auxiliary verbs unlock the door to fluent English!

Time and Tense in English – A Complete Guide for Beginner to Advanced Learners

A Basic Concept of Verb Forms (Present, Past, Future)

Mastering the Simple Present Tense: A Complete Guide

The Present Perfect Tense in English

Present Continuous Tense In English: A Complete Guide

Present Perfect Continuous Tense in English

Simple Past Tense in English Past Perfect Tense in English

Past Continuous Tense in English

Past Perfect Continuous Tense in English

Simple Future Tense in English

Future Perfect Tense in English

Future Continuous Tense in English

Future Perfect Continuous Tense in English

Action Verbs in English

Linking Verbs in English

May 24, 2025

Modal Verbs in English Grammar: A Complete Guide with Examples & Exercise

Imagine a world where we couldn’t express possibility, necessity, or ability in our conversations. How would we ask for permission, give advice, or talk about what we can or must do? This is where modal verbs come in!

Modal verbs are special helping verbs that add meaning to the main verb in a sentence. They do not change form like regular verbs and are used to express possibility, ability, permission, necessity, and more. Some of the most common modal verbs in English are:

Can
Could
May
Might
Shall
Should
Will
Would
Must
Ought to

Modal verbs make sentences more expressive and precise. Compare these two sentences:

✅ I go to school. (Simple statement)
✅ I must go to school. (Expresses obligation)

As you can see, the modal verb must changes the meaning of the sentence. Without modal verbs, our language would lose its depth and clarity!

In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of modal verbs, their uses, rules, tricky exceptions, and plenty of examples to help you master them with confidence.

List of All Modal Verbs in English Grammar

Modal verbs are helping verbs that modify the meaning of the main verb. They express ability, possibility, necessity, obligation, advice, permission, requests, and more. Below is the complete list of modal verbs along with example sentences for each:

Common Modal Verbs

1. Can (Ability, permission, possibility)

✅ She can solve complex math problems.
✅ Can I use your phone for a moment?

2. Could (Past ability, polite request, possibility)

✅ When I was younger, I could climb trees easily.
✅ Could you lend me a pencil?

3. May (Permission, possibility, formal request)

✅ You may enter the classroom now.
✅ It may snow later tonight.

4. Might (Lower possibility than “may”)

✅ He might be at the office.
✅ I might go to the party if I finish my work.

5. Shall (Future intention, offers, formal obligations)

✅ Shall we go for a walk?
✅ You shall receive your certificate next week.

6. Should (Advice, expectation, probability)

✅ You should drink more water.
✅ He should be here by now.

7. Will (Future certainty, willingness, promises)

✅ I will help you with your project.
✅ She will succeed in life.

8. Would (Politeness, hypothetical situations, past habits)

✅ Would you like some tea?
✅ When we were kids, we would play outside for hours.

9. Must (Strong necessity, obligation, certainty)

✅ You must wear a seatbelt.
✅ He must be very tired after the trip.

10. Ought to (Moral obligation, probability)

✅ You ought to respect your elders.
✅ He ought to arrive soon.

Less Common / Advanced Modal Verbs & Semi-Modals

11. Need (Necessity, mainly in negatives and questions)

✅ You need not apologize.
✅ Need I explain it again?

12. Dare (Challenge or courage, mostly in negatives and questions)

✅ How dare you speak like that?
✅ He dare not complain.

13. Used to (Past habits, states, or repeated actions)

✅ She used to live in London.
✅ I used to play soccer every weekend.

14. Had better (Strong advice or warning)

✅ You had better take an umbrella.
✅ He had better not be late for the meeting.

15. Be to (Strong necessity, formal arrangements, destiny)

✅ The President is to visit the country next week.
✅ You are to report to the manager at 9 a.m.

16. Be going to (Future intention, prediction)

✅ I am going to start a new job next month.
✅ It is going to rain soon.

17. Be able to (Ability, alternative to “can”)

✅ She is able to solve difficult puzzles.
✅ They were able to escape before the fire spread.

18. Would rather (Preference)

✅ I would rather stay at home than go out.
✅ She would rather have coffee instead of tea.

These modal verbs and semi-modals help us express different degrees of certainty, obligation, permission, ability, and preference in English.

Usage: When to Use Modal Verbs in Sentences

Modal verbs are used in English to express different meanings. Below are the main situations where modal verbs are used, along with examples.

1. Expressing Ability

Modal verbs such as can, could, and be able to show someone’s ability to do something.

✅ Can – Used for present or general ability.
➡ She can swim very well.
➡ I can speak three languages.

✅ Could – Used for past ability.
➡ When I was a child, I could climb trees easily.
➡ He could run 10 miles when he was younger.

✅ Be able to – Used in all tenses.
➡ I was able to fix my car yesterday.
➡ She will be able to attend the meeting tomorrow.

2. Asking for and Giving Permission

To ask for permission or grant/refuse it, we use can, could, may, and might.

✅ Can – Informal permission.
➡ Can I borrow your pen?
➡ You can leave early today.

✅ Could – Polite or formal permission.
➡ Could I use your phone, please?
➡ Could I take a break now?

✅ May – Formal permission.
➡ May I enter the room?
➡ Yes, you may.

✅ Might – Less commonly used, but very polite.
➡ Might I suggest another option?

3. Expressing Possibility or Probability

To talk about something that is possible or likely, we use may, might, could, can, and must.

✅ May/Might – Show possibility.
➡ It may rain later.
➡ She might be at home now.

✅ Could – Shows something is possible but uncertain.
➡ This could be the best decision you make.
➡ He could arrive anytime.

✅ Can – General possibility.
➡ Fires can start if you are not careful.
➡ Anyone can make a mistake.

✅ Must – Strong probability.
➡ She must be tired after such a long flight.
➡ They must have already left.

4. Expressing Necessity or Obligation

Some modal verbs show something is necessary, required, or mandatory.

✅ Must – Strong necessity or obligation.
➡ You must wear a seatbelt.
➡ Employees must follow the rules.

✅ Have to – Expresses external obligation (rules/laws).
➡ You have to submit your assignment by Friday.
➡ Students have to wear uniforms.

✅ Ought to – Expresses moral obligation.
➡ You ought to help your parents.
➡ She ought to be more careful.

✅ Need to – Expresses necessity.
➡ You need to study for your exam.
➡ He needs to see a doctor.

5. Giving Advice and Making Suggestions

To give recommendations, we use should, ought to, and had better.

✅ Should – General advice or suggestion.
➡ You should eat more vegetables.
➡ He should apologize for his mistake.

✅ Ought to – Moral advice or correctness.
➡ You ought to exercise regularly.
➡ She ought to be more respectful.

✅ Had better – Strong advice with a warning.
➡ You had better leave now, or you’ll miss the train.
➡ He had better study for the test.

6. Making Offers and Invitations

When offering help or inviting someone, we use shall, can, and would.

✅ Shall – Used for offers and suggestions.
➡ Shall I help you with your luggage?
➡ Shall we go to the park?

✅ Can – Informal offers.
➡ Can I get you something to drink?
➡ Can I carry that for you?

✅ Would – Polite invitations.
➡ Would you like to join us for dinner?
➡ Would you like some coffee?

7. Making Requests and Asking for Help

To ask for something politely, we use can, could, and would.

✅ Can – Informal requests.
➡ Can you help me with my homework?
➡ Can you open the window?

✅ Could – Polite requests.
➡ Could you lend me a hand?
➡ Could you explain that again?

✅ Would – Very polite requests.
➡ Would you mind passing the salt?
➡ Would you please call me later?

8. Expressing Prohibition (Not Allowing Something)

To show that something is not allowed, we use can’t, must not, and may not.

✅ Can’t – Informal prohibition.
➡ You can’t park here.
➡ Kids can’t watch this movie.

✅ Must not – Strong prohibition.
➡ You must not smoke in the hospital.
➡ You must not cheat on the test.

✅ May not – Formal prohibition.
➡ You may not enter the building without permission.
➡ Students may not use cell phones in class.

9. Talking About Hypothetical Situations

To talk about imaginary situations or possibilities, we use would, could, and might.

✅ Would – Used in conditional sentences.
➡ If I had a million dollars, I would travel the world.
➡ She would buy a new car if she had enough money.

✅ Could – Shows a possible outcome.
➡ If we left earlier, we could avoid traffic.
➡ You could have won if you had tried harder.

✅ Might – Shows a slight possibility.
➡ If I study hard, I might pass the exam.
➡ He might be famous one day.

10. Expressing Preferences

To express preferences, we use would rather and had better.

✅ Would rather – Shows preference.
➡ I would rather stay home than go out.
➡ She would rather have tea than coffee.

✅ Had better – Shows preference with a warning.
➡ You had better finish your work before the deadline.
➡ He had better be careful while driving.

Grammar Rules and Conjugation of Modal Verbs in English

Modal verbs follow specific grammatical rules that make them different from regular verbs. Understanding their structure and conjugation will help you use them correctly in various situations.

1. Modal Verbs Do Not Change Forms

Unlike regular verbs, modal verbs do not change based on the subject. They remain the same for all persons (I, you, he, she, it, we, they).

✅ She can swim.
✅ They can swim.
✅ I can swim.

There is no need to add -s, -ed, or -ing to modal verbs.

✅ He should study. (Correct)
❌ He shoulds study. (Incorrect)

✅ We might go. (Correct)
❌ We mighted go. (Incorrect)

✅ They must leave. (Correct)
❌ They musting leave. (Incorrect)

2. Modal Verbs Are Always Followed by the Base Form of the Verb

Modal verbs must be followed by the bare infinitive (base form of the verb without “to”).

✅ She can play the piano. (Correct)
❌ She can to play the piano. (Incorrect)

✅ You should eat more vegetables. (Correct)
❌ You should to eat more vegetables. (Incorrect)

🚨 Exceptions:

Ought to and have to require “to + verb.”
- ✅ You ought to apologize.
- ✅ I have to leave now.

3. Modal Verbs Do Not Have Past, Present, or Future Forms

Modal verbs do not have different forms for past, present, or future. Instead, they use alternative structures to indicate time.

Past Forms of Modal Verbs

Some modals have past equivalents:

Can → Could (past ability)
- ✅ He could run fast when he was young.
Must → Had to (past necessity)
- ✅ I had to wake up early yesterday.
May/Might → Might have + past participle (past possibility)
- ✅ She might have missed the bus.

Future Forms of Modal Verbs

Some modal verbs refer to the future, while others use alternative phrases:

Will naturally refers to the future.
- ✅ She will help us tomorrow.
Can is replaced with “be able to” in the future.
- ✅ She will be able to drive soon.

4. Modal Verbs Form Negatives by Adding “Not”

To form a negative sentence, add “not” directly after the modal verb.

✅ You should not (shouldn’t) be late.
❌ You do not should be late.

✅ He cannot (can’t) swim.
❌ He does not can swim.

Common Negative Contractions

Full Form	Contracted Form
Cannot	Can’t
Will not	Won’t
Shall not	Shan’t (British English)
Must not	Mustn’t
Should not	Shouldn’t
Would not	Wouldn’t

Example Sentences:
✅ You mustn’t be rude.
✅ They won’t come today.

5. Modal Verbs Form Questions by Inverting the Subject and Modal Verb

To make a question, swap the subject and the modal verb.

✅ Can you swim?
❌ Do you can swim?

✅ Should I call her?
❌ Do I should call her?

✅ Might he come to the party?
❌ Does he might come to the party?

6. Some Modals Require “Have + Past Participle” for the Past Tense

To express past probability, regret, or missed opportunities, use “modal verb + have + past participle (V3)”.

Modal Verb	Past Form	Example
Must	Must have + V3	He must have forgotten the meeting.
Could	Could have + V3	She could have helped us.
Might	Might have + V3	They might have left already.
Should	Should have + V3	You should have called me.
Would	Would have + V3	I would have gone if I knew.

Example Sentences:
✅ He must have been tired after the trip.
✅ She could have won the competition.

7. Some Modal Verbs Have Alternative Forms

Because modal verbs do not change tense, they sometimes need alternative expressions.

Modal Verb	Alternative Equivalent
Can	Be able to (I was able to swim.)
Must	Have to (I had to leave early.)
Shall	Be going to (I am going to travel.)

Example Sentences:
✅ She can speak Spanish. → She will be able to speak Spanish soon.
✅ You must submit the report. → You had to submit the report yesterday.

8. Modal Verbs Show Different Degrees of Certainty

Modals express how certain or possible something is.

Modal Verb	Degree of Certainty	Example
Must	100% certain	He must be the new teacher.
Will	99% certain	She will love this movie.
May/Might/Could	50% possible	It might rain later.
Can	General possibility	Accidents can happen.
Should	Expected outcome	The train should arrive soon.

Example Sentences:
✅ He must be at home. (I am sure.)
✅ She might be busy. (There is a possibility.)

9. Modal Verbs Express Necessity and Prohibition

Must and have to express necessity.
- ✅ You must wear a seatbelt.
- ✅ You have to follow the rules.
Must not and can’t express prohibition.
- ✅ You must not smoke here.
- ✅ You can’t park in this area.

10. Modal Verbs Indicate Politeness in Requests and Offers

Certain modal verbs make requests more polite.

Casual	Polite	Very Polite
Can you help me?	Could you help me?	Would you mind helping me?
Can I borrow this?	Could I borrow this?	May I borrow this?

Example Sentences:
✅ Can you open the door? (Casual)
✅ Could you please pass the salt? (Polite)
✅ Would you mind helping me? (Very polite)

Things to Keep in Mind: Tricky Points & Exceptions

While modal verbs follow certain patterns, there are some exceptions and tricky rules that learners must pay attention to.

1. “Can” vs. “Be Able To”

“Can” is used for general ability in the present and future, but “be able to” is used in all tenses.
Past Ability: Use “was/were able to” (for specific events) instead of “could.”

✅ I can swim. (Present)
✅ I will be able to swim soon. (Future)
✅ He was able to escape. (Specific past event)
❌ He could escape. (Incorrect for a specific event)

2. “Must” vs. “Have To”

“Must” is used for personal obligation, while “have to” refers to external rules.
In the past, “must” changes to “had to” instead of “musted.”

✅ I must call my mom. (Personal decision)
✅ I have to wear a uniform. (Rule)
✅ I had to leave early. (Past obligation)

3. “Shall” in Modern English

“Shall” is mostly used in British English for formal speech or legal documents.
In American English, “shall” is often replaced by “will” or “should.”

✅ Shall we go? (Formal/British)
✅ Should we go? (More common)

4. “May” vs. “Might” for Possibility

Both express possibility, but “might” suggests a lower chance.
In the past, use “might have” or “may have” + past participle.

✅ It may rain later. (Higher chance)
✅ It might rain later. (Lower chance)
✅ She might have forgotten. (Past possibility)

5. “Would” for Past Habits vs. “Used to”

“Would” is used for repeated past actions, but not for past states.
“Used to” can describe both past habits and past states.

✅ When I was a child, I would play outside every day. (Past habit)
✅ I used to have long hair. (Past state)
❌ I would have long hair. (Incorrect)

6. Double Modals Are Incorrect in Standard English

Using two modal verbs together is grammatically incorrect, though it appears in some regional dialects (e.g., “might could” in Southern US English).

❌ I might can do it. (Incorrect)
✅ I might be able to do it. (Correct)

7. Negative Meaning Without “Not”

Some modals already have a negative meaning without needing “not.”
- Needn’t = No obligation (similar to “don’t have to”)
- Can’t = Prohibition or impossibility

✅ You needn’t worry. (No need to worry)
✅ He can’t be the thief. (Impossible)

8. “Should” vs. “Ought To”

Both mean the same, but “ought to” is less common and slightly more formal.
“Ought to” is always followed by “to”, unlike “should.”

✅ You should apologize.
✅ You ought to apologize.

9. “Dare” and “Need” as Semi-Modals

“Dare” (challenge) and “need” (necessity) can act like modals in negative and interrogative sentences.
In affirmative sentences, they behave like regular verbs.

✅ You needn’t worry. (Modal-like)
✅ Do you dare to speak? (Regular verb with “to”)

10. Modal Verbs Without a Direct Translation

Some modal verbs don’t have a direct equivalent in other languages, leading to confusion.
Example: “Would” is used for hypothetical situations and polite speech, which may not exist in some languages.

✅ I would love to visit Japan. (Hypothetical)
✅ Would you like some tea? (Politeness)

Example Sentences with Modal Verbs

1. Can – Ability, Possibility, Permission

✅ I can swim across the river. (Ability)
✅ Can I use your phone for a minute? (Permission)

2. Could – Past Ability, Polite Request, Possibility

✅ She could read when she was four. (Past ability)
✅ Could you help me with my homework? (Polite request)

3. May – Permission, Possibility, Probability

✅ May I leave early today? (Permission)
✅ It may rain this evening. (Possibility)

4. Might – Lower Probability, Speculation

✅ She might be at the library now. (Possibility)
✅ You might want to bring an umbrella. (Suggestion)

5. Must – Obligation, Strong Necessity, Deduction

✅ You must wear a seatbelt while driving. (Obligation)
✅ He must be tired after the long flight. (Strong assumption)

6. Shall – Formal Offers, Legal Language, Future Intentions

✅ Shall we go for a walk? (Offer)
✅ The tenant shall pay the rent on the first of each month. (Legal obligation)

7. Should – Advice, Expectation, Probability

✅ You should eat more vegetables. (Advice)
✅ The train should arrive by 6 PM. (Expectation)

8. Will – Future Prediction, Instant Decision, Promise

✅ I will call you tomorrow. (Future)
✅ I will help you with your bags. (Instant decision)

9. Would – Politeness, Hypothetical Situations, Repeated Past Actions

✅ Would you like a cup of tea? (Politeness)
✅ When I was a child, I would play outside for hours. (Past habit)

10. Ought to – Advice, Moral Duty

✅ You ought to respect your elders. (Moral obligation)
✅ We ought to leave now if we want to catch the train. (Advice)

11. Needn’t – No Necessity

✅ You needn’t bring food; we have plenty. (No necessity)
✅ She needn’t worry about the test; she studied well. (No need to worry)

12. Used to – Past Habit, Past State

✅ I used to live in New York. (Past state)
✅ She used to wake up early every day. (Past habit)

13. Had better – Strong Advice, Warning

✅ You had better apologize before it’s too late. (Strong advice)
✅ We had better leave now to avoid traffic. (Warning)

14. Dare – Challenge or Courage

✅ How dare you speak to me like that? (Challenge)
✅ He dared not enter the haunted house. (Lack of courage)

Exercise: Fill in the Blanks with the Correct Modal Verb

(Choose from: can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, would, ought to, needn’t, dare, had better, used to, be able to).

1 – 10: Basic Modal Verb Usage

You _____ wear a seatbelt while driving. (Obligation)
_____ you help me carry these bags, please? (Polite request)
He _____ swim when he was five years old. (Past ability)
You _____ go outside without an umbrella; it’s raining. (Advice)
They _____ be at the party by now. (Strong assumption)
She _____ finish her work before the deadline, or she will get in trouble. (Strong advice)
_____ I use your pen for a moment? (Permission)
He _____ have forgotten his phone at home. (Possibility)
We _____ leave early to catch the first train. (Necessity)
He _____ not say that to his teacher! (Challenge)

11 – 20: Advanced Modal Verb Usage

You _____ apologize before it’s too late. (Strong advice)
When I was a child, I _____ wake up early and go cycling. (Past habit)
She _____ bring her ID to enter the building. (Necessity)
If I were you, I _____ not make such a risky decision. (Advice)
I _____ call you later to discuss the details. (Future intention)
You _____ worry; everything will be fine. (No necessity)
They _____ have left already, but I’m not sure. (Uncertain possibility)
Students _____ talk loudly in the library. (Prohibition)
We _____ be able to finish the project by next week. (Future ability)
How _____ you say something so rude? (Challenge)

Answers: Fill in the Blanks with the Correct Modal Verb

1 – 10: Basic Modal Verb Usage

You must wear a seatbelt while driving. (Obligation)
Could you help me carry these bags, please? (Polite request)
He could swim when he was five years old. (Past ability)
You should go outside without an umbrella; it’s raining. (Advice)
They must be at the party by now. (Strong assumption)
She had better finish her work before the deadline, or she will get in trouble. (Strong advice)
May I use your pen for a moment? (Permission)
He might have forgotten his phone at home. (Possibility)
We ought to leave early to catch the first train. (Necessity)
He dare not say that to his teacher! (Challenge)

11 – 20: Advanced Modal Verb Usage

You had better apologize before it’s too late. (Strong advice)
When I was a child, I used to wake up early and go cycling. (Past habit)
She must bring her ID to enter the building. (Necessity)
If I were you, I would not make such a risky decision. (Advice)
I will call you later to discuss the details. (Future intention)
You needn’t worry; everything will be fine. (No necessity)
They might have left already, but I’m not sure. (Uncertain possibility)
Students must not talk loudly in the library. (Prohibition)
We will be able to finish the project by next week. (Future ability)
How dare you say something so rude? (Challenge)

Summary: Key Takeaways on Modal Verbs

✅ Definition: Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express ability, possibility, necessity, permission, and more.

✅ List of Modal Verbs:

Basic Modal Verbs: can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, would
Semi-Modal & Advanced Modal Verbs: ought to, needn’t, used to, had better, dare

✅ Usage of Modal Verbs:

Can → Ability, permission, possibility
Could → Past ability, polite request, possibility
May → Permission, possibility, probability
Might → Lower probability, speculation
Must → Obligation, necessity, deduction
Shall → Formal offers, legal obligations, future intentions
Should → Advice, expectation, probability
Will → Future prediction, promises, decisions
Would → Politeness, hypothetical situations, past habits
Ought to → Moral duty, strong advice
Needn’t → No necessity
Used to → Past habits, past states
Had better → Strong advice, warning
Dare → Challenge, courage

✅ Grammar Rules & Conjugation:

Modal verbs do not change with subject pronouns.
They are followed by the base form of the main verb (e.g., She can swim).
No -s, -ing, or -ed forms (e.g., ❌ He cans swim → ✅ He can swim).
Questions and negatives are formed without “do/does” (e.g., Must I go? You must not go).

✅ Tricky Points & Exceptions:

Must vs. Have to: Must is stronger than have to in some cases.
Shall vs. Will: Shall is more formal and often used in legal language.
Needn’t vs. Must not: Needn’t means no necessity, while must not means prohibition.

Conclusion

Modal verbs are an essential part of English grammar, helping us express ability, possibility, necessity, permission, and more. They add clarity and precision to sentences, making communication more effective. Whether you’re giving advice (You should study), expressing a possibility (It might rain), or making a strong statement (You must be on time), understanding how to use modal verbs correctly can significantly improve your English skills.

By mastering the rules and nuances of modal verbs, learners can enhance their fluency and confidence in both written and spoken English. Keep practicing, apply them in daily conversations, and soon, using modal verbs will become second nature.

If you found this guide helpful, try applying these concepts in real-life conversations and writing exercises. The more you use them, the more natural they will feel!

Understanding modal verbs is a huge step toward mastering English grammar! Now that you’ve learned their rules, meanings, and tricky exceptions, start using them in your daily conversations and writing. The more you practice, the more natural they’ll feel!

Want more in-depth grammar lessons, language tips, and engaging exercises? Subscribe to our blog for regular updates, and follow us on social media for daily language learning insights. Join our growing community of English learners and take your skills to the next level!

📌 Check out more posts like this on my blog at My Language Classes. Don’t forget to subscribe my YouTube channel and follow me on Instagram for the latest language learning tips and lessons. Leave a comment below to share your thoughts, or ask any questions you have about nouns.

Happy learning! 😊

Let’s make learning English easy and enjoyable—together!

More on English Grammar: Master Superlatives in English Grammar: Rules, Examples, and Common Mistakes

Comparatives (Adjective) in English Language: A Complete Guide

Conjunctive Adverbs in English: The Ultimate Expert Guide to Writing Mastery

Mastering Relative Adverbs in English: A Comprehensive Guide

Interrogative Adverbs in English

March 21, 2025

Perífrasis Verbales in Spanish: Master Verbal Periphrases with Easy Rules & Examples

Learning Spanish grammar can sometimes feel overwhelming, but understanding perífrasis verbales (verbal periphrases) is essential for mastering the language. These special verb constructions help express intentions, actions in progress, repetition, obligation, probability, and more.

In simple terms, a perífrasis verbal is a combination of two verbs that work together as a single unit to convey a specific meaning. The first verb is conjugated, while the second verb usually appears in its infinitive, gerund, or participle form. For example:

✅ Voy a estudiar español. (I am going to study Spanish.)
✅ Estoy aprendiendo español. (I am learning Spanish.)
✅ Tengo que practicar español. (I have to practice Spanish.)

These expressions are extremely common in everyday conversations and essential for speaking naturally and fluently in Spanish.

In this guide, we will explore:

✔️ Common expressions using verbal periphrases
✔️ How and when to use them correctly
✔️ Grammar rules and tricky points to keep in mind
✔️ 20 example sentences with translations
✔️ Exercises and answers to test your understanding

By the end of this lesson, you will have a strong grasp of Spanish verbal periphrases and be able to use them confidently in daily conversations. Let’s get started!

Common Expressions

Here are 10 essential expressions using perífrasis verbales:

Voy a estudiar español. (I am going to study Spanish.)
Tienes que hacer la tarea. (You have to do the homework.)
Está lloviendo mucho. (It is raining a lot.)
Llevo tres años viviendo en Madrid. (I have been living in Madrid for three years.)
Debes decir la verdad. (You must tell the truth.)
Volvió a llamar a su amigo. (He/She called their friend again.)
Sigo aprendiendo japonés. (I am still learning Japanese.)
Hay que comer frutas y verduras. (One must eat fruits and vegetables.)
Empezó a nevar de repente. (It suddenly started to snow.)
Debe de estar en casa ahora. (He/She must be at home now.)

Usage of Perífrasis Verbales in Spanish

Verbal periphrases allow Spanish speakers to express time, obligation, ongoing actions, repetition, probability, and more with precision. Below are the six main categories, along with common structures and example sentences that help illustrate their usage in real-life communication.

1. Perífrasis to Express the Future or Intention

Ir a + infinitive → Expresses near-future actions or intentions
✅ Voy a estudiar español. (I am going to study Spanish.)
✅ ¿Vas a viajar este verano? (Are you going to travel this summer?)
Estar por + infinitive → Indicates something is about to happen
✅ Estoy por llamar a mi amigo. (I’m about to call my friend.)
✅ El tren está por salir. (The train is about to leave.)
Andar + gerundio → Indicates an action happening intermittently or informally
✅ Anda diciendo mentiras sobre mí. (He/She keeps spreading lies about me.)
✅ Ando buscando un buen restaurante. (I’m going around looking for a good restaurant.)

2. Perífrasis to Express Obligation or Necessity

Tener que + infinitive → Expresses personal obligation
✅ Tienes que hacer la tarea. (You have to do the homework.)
✅ Tengo que estudiar para el examen. (I have to study for the exam.)
Deber + infinitive → Expresses moral obligation or strong recommendation
✅ Debes decir la verdad. (You must tell the truth.)
✅ Deberías ayudar a tus padres. (You should help your parents.)
Haber de + infinitive → Expresses a formal obligation or a personal resolution
✅ Has de respetar las normas de la empresa. (You must respect the company rules.)
✅ Hemos de salir temprano mañana. (We have to leave early tomorrow.)
Haber que + infinitive → Expresses necessity in an impersonal way
✅ Habrá que esperar hasta mañana. (We will have to wait until tomorrow.)
✅ Habrá que ver cómo reacciona. (We will have to see how he/she reacts.)

3. Perífrasis to Express Actions in Progress

Estar + gerundio → Expresses an action happening right now
✅ Está lloviendo mucho. (It is raining a lot.)
✅ Estoy aprendiendo español. (I am learning Spanish.)
Llevar + gerundio → Indicates the duration of an action
✅ Llevo tres años viviendo en Madrid. (I have been living in Madrid for three years.)
✅ Llevamos una hora esperando. (We have been waiting for an hour.)
Ir + gerundio → Expresses a gradual action
✅ Voy entendiendo mejor la gramática. (I am gradually understanding grammar better.)
✅ Va mejorando su español con el tiempo. (His/Her Spanish is improving over time.)
Andar + gerundio → Indicates an action done repeatedly or without a clear direction
✅ Anda buscando trabajo desde hace meses. (He/She has been looking for a job for months.)
✅ Siempre anda diciendo cosas sin pensar. (He/She is always saying things without thinking.)

4. Perífrasis to Express the Start, Continuation, or End of an Action

Empezar a + infinitive → Expresses the beginning of an action
✅ Empezó a nevar de repente. (It suddenly started to snow.)
✅ Ana empezó a trabajar en una nueva empresa. (Ana started working at a new company.)
Volver a + infinitive → Expresses repetition of an action
✅ Volvió a llamar a su amigo. (He/She called their friend again.)
✅ Tengo que volver a estudiar este tema. (I have to study this topic again.)
Seguir + gerundio → Expresses continuity of an action
✅ Sigo aprendiendo japonés. (I am still learning Japanese.)
✅ Seguimos esperando el autobús. (We are still waiting for the bus.)
Dejar de + infinitive → Expresses the interruption of an action
✅ Dejé de fumar el año pasado. (I stopped smoking last year.)
✅ Por favor, deja de molestar. (Please stop bothering me.)
Acabar de + infinitive → Expresses an action that was completed very recently
✅ Acabo de terminar el informe. (I just finished the report.)
✅ Acabamos de llegar a casa. (We just got home.)

5. Perífrasis to Express Probability or Assumption

Deber de + infinitive → Expresses probability or speculation
✅ Debe de estar en casa ahora. (He/She must be at home now.)
✅ Debe de hacer frío afuera. (It must be cold outside.)
Tener que + infinitive → Can also indicate probability
✅ Tienen que estar cansados después de un día tan largo. (They must be tired after such a long day.)
✅ Tiene que ser muy interesante ese libro. (That book must be very interesting.)
Venir a + infinitive → Expresses approximation or estimation
✅ Esto viene a costar unos 50 euros. (This costs approximately 50 euros.)
✅ Viene a ser lo mismo. (It turns out to be the same.)
Parecer + infinitive → Expresses a tentative assumption
✅ Parece ser una persona amable. (He/She seems to be a kind person.)
✅ Parece haber un problema con la conexión. (There seems to be a problem with the connection.)

6. Perífrasis to Express the Result of an Action (Advanced / C1 Level)

Tener + participio → Expresses a completed action with an effect
✅ Tengo hechas todas mis tareas. (I have all my tasks done.)
✅ Ya tienes escrita la carta. (You already have the letter written.)
Llevar + participio → Emphasizes the quantity of something completed
✅ Llevo leídos tres capítulos del libro. (I have read three chapters of the book.)
✅ Llevamos recorridos 100 kilómetros. (We have traveled 100 kilometers.)

Final Thoughts on Usage👇👇

These six key categories of verbal periphrases allow for more precise, natural, and advanced communication in Spanish. For students preparing for DELE C1, mastering these expressions is essential for achieving fluency and accuracy in both spoken and written Spanish.

Conjugation of Perífrasis Verbales in Spanish

Verbal periphrases always consist of two or more verbs:

An auxiliary (conjugated) verb → This verb provides tense, mood, person, and number.
A main verb (non-conjugated) → This verb remains in infinitive, gerund, or past participle form.

Let’s break down the conjugation for each type of periphrasis across different verb forms.

1. Conjugation with Infinitive (Perífrasis de Infinitivo)

These periphrases use an auxiliary verb followed by an infinitive verb.

Conjugation Examples:

✅ Tener que + infinitive (Expressing obligation)

Subject	Present	Preterite	Imperfect	Future
Yo	Tengo que estudiar	Tuve que estudiar	Tenía que estudiar	Tendré que estudiar
Tú	Tienes que salir	Tuviste que salir	Tenías que salir	Tendrás que salir
Él/Ella	Tiene que trabajar	Tuvo que trabajar	Tenía que trabajar	Tendrá que trabajar
Nosotros	Tenemos que esperar	Tuvimos que esperar	Teníamos que esperar	Tendremos que esperar
Vosotros	Tenéis que comer	Tuvisteis que comer	Teníais que comer	Tendréis que comer
Ellos/Ellas	Tienen que irse	Tuvieron que irse	Tenían que irse	Tendrán que irse

📝 Other common periphrases with infinitives:

Ir a + infinitive → Voy a viajar, Iba a viajar, Fui a viajar, Iré a viajar
Deber + infinitive → Debo estudiar, Debía estudiar, Debí estudiar, Deberé estudiar

2. Conjugation with Gerund (Perífrasis de Gerundio)

These periphrases use an auxiliary verb with a gerund (-ando, -iendo) to show ongoing or repetitive actions.

Conjugation Examples:

✅ Estar + gerundio (Expressing an ongoing action)

Subject	Present	Preterite	Imperfect	Future
Yo	Estoy estudiando	Estuve estudiando	Estaba estudiando	Estaré estudiando
Tú	Estás comiendo	Estuviste comiendo	Estabas comiendo	Estarás comiendo
Él/Ella	Está trabajando	Estuvo trabajando	Estaba trabajando	Estará trabajando
Nosotros	Estamos escribiendo	Estuvimos escribiendo	Estábamos escribiendo	Estaremos escribiendo
Vosotros	Estáis leyendo	Estuvisteis leyendo	Estabais leyendo	Estaréis leyendo
Ellos/Ellas	Están durmiendo	Estuvieron durmiendo	Estaban durmiendo	Estarán durmiendo

📝 Other common periphrases with gerunds:

Seguir + gerundio → Sigo aprendiendo, Seguí aprendiendo, Seguía aprendiendo, Seguiré aprendiendo
Andar + gerundio → Anda diciendo cosas raras, Andaba diciendo cosas raras

3. Conjugation with Past Participle (Perífrasis de Participio)

These periphrases use an auxiliary verb followed by a past participle (-ado, -ido, irregular forms) to express a completed or resulting action.

Conjugation Examples:

✅ Llevar + participio (Expressing quantity of completed actions)

Subject	Present	Preterite	Imperfect	Future
Yo	Llevo terminados dos libros	Llevé terminados dos libros	Llevaba terminados dos libros	Llevaré terminados dos libros
Tú	Llevas hechos los deberes	Llevaste hechos los deberes	Llevabas hechos los deberes	Llevarás hechos los deberes
Él/Ella	Lleva corregidos los errores	Llevó corregidos los errores	Llevaba corregidos los errores	Llevará corregidos los errores
Nosotros	Llevamos vistos muchos episodios	Llevamos vistos muchos episodios	Llevábamos vistos muchos episodios	Llevaremos vistos muchos episodios
Vosotros	Lleváis aprendidas tres canciones	Llevasteis aprendidas tres canciones	Llevabais aprendidas tres canciones	Llevaréis aprendidas tres canciones
Ellos/Ellas	Llevan completados cinco informes	Llevaron completados cinco informes	Llevaban completados cinco informes	Llevarán completados cinco informes

📝 Other common periphrases with participles:

Tener + participio → Tengo hechas las tareas, Tenía hechas las tareas
Dar por + participio → Doy por terminada la reunión, Daba por terminada la reunión

4. Conjugation of Verbal Periphrases with Reflexive Verbs

Some periphrases involve reflexive verbs, meaning the reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, os, se) must be placed correctly.

Example: Ir a + infinitive with a reflexive verb

✅ Me voy a duchar. (I am going to take a shower.)
✅ Voy a ducharme. (I am going to take a shower.)

📌 Placement Rules:

The reflexive pronoun can be before the conjugated verb or attached to the infinitive/gerund.
Gerund example:
✅ Me estoy duchando. = ✅ Estoy duchándome.

Key Takeaways on Conjugation 👇👇

✔ The first verb (auxiliary verb) is conjugated in the required tense.
✔ The second verb remains in the infinitive, gerund, or participle form.
✔ In reflexive periphrases, the pronoun can be before the conjugated verb or attached to the non-conjugated verb.
✔ Some periphrases work with multiple conjugation patterns depending on tense and aspect.

Grammar Rules for Perífrasis Verbales in Spanish

Verbal periphrases follow specific grammatical structures that determine their correct usage. Below, we’ll break down these rules to help you use them accurately.

1. Structure of Verbal Periphrases

A verbal periphrasis consists of:
✅ Auxiliary verb (conjugated) + Link word (sometimes) + Main verb (non-conjugated)

Types of Non-Conjugated Main Verbs:

Infinitive: Voy a estudiar (I am going to study)
Gerund: Estoy estudiando (I am studying)
Participle: Tengo hecha la tarea (I have the homework done)

Some periphrases require a preposition (de, a, por, en, con) between the verbs:

Acabar de + infinitive → Acabo de llegar. (I just arrived.)
Tener que + infinitive → Tienes que comer. (You have to eat.)

2. Agreement Between Verbs

📌 The first verb is conjugated, while the second verb remains unchanged:
✅ Debemos estudiar. (We must study.)
✅ Seguí trabajando. (I kept working.)

📌 If the first verb changes in tense or mood, the second verb does not:
✅ Voy a viajar. (I am going to travel.) → Future intention
✅ Fui a viajar. (I was going to travel.) → Past intention

3. Reflexive Verbs in Verbal Periphrases

When using reflexive verbs in periphrases, the reflexive pronoun can be:
✅ Before the conjugated auxiliary verb: Me voy a duchar. (I am going to shower.)
✅ Attached to the infinitive or gerund: Voy a ducharme.

For periphrases with gerunds, an accent is needed when the pronoun is attached:
✅ Estoy bañándome. (I am taking a bath.)

4. Subjunctive with Verbal Periphrases

Some periphrases require the subjunctive mood in certain cases:
✅ Puede que + subjunctive → Puede que llueva mañana. (It might rain tomorrow.)
✅ Deber de + subjunctive → Debe de haber llegado ya. (He must have arrived already.)

5. Verbal Periphrases and Passive Voice

Certain periphrases work in passive constructions:
✅ Se debe trabajar con esfuerzo. (One must work hard.)
✅ Las tareas deben de estar terminadas. (The tasks must be finished.)

6. Key Exceptions & Irregular Cases

❌ Not all verbs can form periphrases. Some verbs need prepositions but don’t function as periphrases (e.g., “insistir en hacer algo” is not a periphrasis).
❌ Perífrasis with ‘estar + participio’ are NOT true periphrases but function as descriptions (Está roto = It is broken).

Key Takeaways on Grammar Rules

✔ First verb is conjugated; second verb remains infinitive, gerund, or participle.
✔ Some periphrases require prepositions (a, de, por, en).
✔ Reflexive pronouns can attach to infinitives/gerunds but require accents.
✔ Some periphrases use the subjunctive.
✔ Certain periphrases work in passive voice.

Things to Keep in Mind About Perífrasis Verbales

While verbal periphrases are widely used in Spanish, there are some tricky points, exceptions, and special considerations to be aware of. Let’s explore them in detail.

1. Not All Verb + Infinitive Constructions Are Perífrasis

Not every combination of a conjugated verb + an infinitive forms a true verbal periphrasis. Some verbs simply govern an infinitive without forming a fixed grammatical structure.

❌ Incorrect example (not a periphrasis):

Quiero cantar. (I want to sing.) → “Querer” acts as a modal verb, not a periphrasis.

✅ Correct periphrasis example:

Voy a cantar. (I am going to sing.) → “Ir a + infinitive” is a true verbal periphrasis.

📌 Tip: If the first verb can stand alone with full meaning (like quiero in quiero cantar), it’s not a periphrasis.

2. Differences Between “Deber” and “Deber de”

Many learners confuse these two structures:

✅ Deber + infinitive → Expresses obligation.

Debes estudiar más. (You must study more.)

✅ Deber de + infinitive → Expresses probability or assumption.

Debe de estar en casa. (He must be at home.)

📌 Tip: If you can replace “deber de” with “probablemente”, it means probability.

3. When to Use “Tener que” vs. “Haber que”

✅ Tener que + infinitive → Expresses a personal obligation.

Tengo que trabajar. (I have to work.)

✅ Haber que + infinitive → Expresses a general necessity (impersonal).

Hay que estudiar mucho. (One must study a lot.)

📌 Tip: Haber que is only used in third-person singular (hay que).

4. Reflexive Verbs in Perífrasis: Placement of Pronouns

When using reflexive verbs, the pronoun position changes depending on the structure.

✅ Before the conjugated verb:

Me voy a duchar. (I am going to shower.)

✅ Attached to the infinitive or gerund:

Voy a ducharme.
Estoy duchándome. (With accent for correct stress)

📌 Tip: If attaching a pronoun to a gerund, add an accent to maintain pronunciation.

5. Some Perífrasis Have Multiple Meanings Depending on Context

✅ Andar + gerundio → Usually means “to go around doing something,” but can also express a negative tone (complaints).

Ando buscando un nuevo trabajo. (I am looking for a new job.) → Neutral
Anda diciendo tonterías. (He keeps saying nonsense.) → Negative

📌 Tip: Be careful with the tone and context when using andar + gerundio.

6. Perífrasis Can Change Meaning in Different Tenses

Some periphrases change in meaning depending on the tense:

✅ Ir a + infinitive (Present) → Future intention

Voy a comprar pan. (I am going to buy bread.)

✅ Ir a + infinitive (Past) → Unfulfilled intention

Iba a comprar pan, pero se me olvidó. (I was going to buy bread, but I forgot.)

📌 Tip: In past tenses (iba a + infinitive), the action never happened!

7. Be Aware of Regional Variations

Some periphrases are more common in certain Spanish-speaking regions.

✅ “Ir a + infinitive” is universally used to express future actions.
✅ “Llevar + gerundio” (e.g., llevo estudiando 2 años) is more common in Spain.
✅ “Estar por + infinitive” (meaning “to be about to do something”) is more common in Latin America.

📌 Tip: Spanish varies across regions, so be mindful of how certain periphrases are used differently.

Key Takeaways on Tricky Points & Exceptions

✔ Not all verb + infinitive structures are periphrases.
✔ Deber vs. Deber de → Obligation vs. probability.
✔ Tener que vs. Haber que → Personal vs. impersonal obligation.
✔ Reflexive pronouns can attach to infinitives or gerunds (with accents).
✔ Some periphrases change meaning in past tenses.
✔ Regional differences exist for some periphrases.

More Example Sentences Using Perífrasis Verbales

Each sentence demonstrates a different type of verbal periphrasis in Spanish with its English translation.

1. Perífrasis to Express the Future or Intention

🔹 Ir a + infinitive → Expresses near-future actions or intentions.

Voy a comprar un coche nuevo el próximo mes.
I am going to buy a new car next month.
Mañana vamos a visitar a mis abuelos.
Tomorrow we are going to visit my grandparents.

🔹 Estar por + infinitive → Indicates something is about to happen.

El avión está por despegar, abróchense los cinturones.
The plane is about to take off, fasten your seatbelts.
La película está por comenzar, apaga el teléfono.
The movie is about to start, turn off your phone.

2. Perífrasis to Express Obligation or Necessity

🔹 Tener que + infinitive → Expresses personal obligation.

Tengo que hacer la tarea antes de salir.
I have to do my homework before going out.
Mi hermano tiene que cuidar a su perro este fin de semana.
My brother has to take care of his dog this weekend.

🔹 Haber que + infinitive → Expresses general obligation.

Hay que ser responsable con el trabajo.
One must be responsible with work.
Para mantenerse sano, hay que hacer ejercicio regularmente.
To stay healthy, one must exercise regularly.

🔹 Deber + infinitive → Expresses moral or ethical obligation.

Debes respetar las opiniones de los demás.
You must respect other people’s opinions.
Debemos ayudar a quienes lo necesitan.
We must help those in need.

3. Perífrasis to Express the Start, Continuation, or End of an Action

🔹 Empezar a + infinitive → Expresses the beginning of an action.

Empezamos a estudiar japonés este semestre.
We started studying Japanese this semester.
El bebé empezó a caminar la semana pasada.
The baby started walking last week.

🔹 Ponerse a + infinitive → Expresses a sudden or voluntary start of an action.

Me puse a reír cuando escuché el chiste.
I started laughing when I heard the joke.
Se puso a llover justo cuando salimos.
It started raining just as we went out.

🔹 Seguir + gerundio → Expresses the continuation of an action.

Sigo aprendiendo francés en mi tiempo libre.
I am still learning French in my free time.
Después de tanto tiempo, él sigue trabajando en la misma empresa.
After so much time, he is still working at the same company.

🔹 Llevar + gerundio → Expresses the duration of an action.

Llevo estudiando español cinco años.
I have been studying Spanish for five years.
Llevamos viviendo aquí desde 2010.
We have been living here since 2010.

🔹 Acabar de + infinitive → Expresses an action that has just finished.

Acabo de hablar con mi madre por teléfono.
I just talked to my mother on the phone.
Acabamos de llegar a casa después del viaje.
We just arrived home after the trip.

🔹 Dejar de + infinitive → Expresses stopping an action.

Dejé de comer azúcar por motivos de salud.
I stopped eating sugar for health reasons.
Ellos dejaron de fumar hace años.
They stopped smoking years ago.

4. Perífrasis to Express Probability or Assumption

🔹 Deber de + infinitive → Expresses probability or assumption.

Debe de estar cansado después del viaje.
He must be tired after the trip.
La tienda debe de estar cerrada a esta hora.
The store must be closed at this hour.

🔹 Poder + infinitive → Expresses possibility.

Puede llover más tarde, lleva un paraguas.
It might rain later, take an umbrella.
El tren puede haber llegado ya.
The train might have arrived already.

5. Perífrasis to Express Repetition or Habit

🔹 Volver a + infinitive → Expresses repeating an action.

Volví a ver la película porque me encantó.
I watched the movie again because I loved it.
Voy a volver a intentarlo mañana.
I am going to try again tomorrow.

🔹 Soler + infinitive → Expresses a habit or customary action.

Suele desayunar café y tostadas.
He usually has coffee and toast for breakfast.
No suelo salir los domingos.
I don’t usually go out on Sundays.

6. Perífrasis to Express Gradual Progress or Result

🔹 Ir + gerundio → Expresses gradual progress of an action.

Voy aprendiendo español poco a poco.
I am gradually learning Spanish.
Ellos van mejorando en cada partido.
They are improving in every match.

🔹 Acabar + gerundio → Expresses an action that results in something.

Acabé perdiendo mi teléfono en el viaje.
I ended up losing my phone on the trip.
Siempre acaba discutiendo con su hermano.
He always ends up arguing with his brother.

🔹 Andar + gerundio → Expresses doing something continuously or aimlessly.

Ando buscando un libro interesante para leer.
I am going around looking for an interesting book to read.
Anda diciendo mentiras sobre mí.
He is going around telling lies about me.

Exercise: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the following sentences using the correct perífrasis verbal. The verb to be used is given in parentheses in its plain form.

Example:
(_______) estudiar más para el examen. (Tener que)
✅ Tengo que estudiar más para el examen.
💡 I have to study more for the exam.

Complete the sentences:

Mañana __________ a la playa con mis amigos. (Ir a – viajar)
El tren __________ en cinco minutos. (Estar por – salir)
Para ser saludable, __________ frutas y verduras. (Haber que – comer)
Mis abuelos __________ la televisión todas las noches. (Soler – ver)
No puedo hablar ahora, __________ con el director. (Estar – hablar)
Después de muchos intentos, __________ ganar el torneo. (Acabar – conseguir)
¿__________ a llamarme más tarde? (Volver a – llamar)
Es tarde, ya __________ en casa. (Deber de – estar)
Mi hermano __________ el violín hace dos años. (Dejar de – tocar)
Mis amigos __________ mudarse a otra ciudad. (Pensar – mudarse)
Cuando terminó la película, todos __________ a aplaudir. (Ponerse a – aplaudir)
Si sigues así, __________ problemas en el futuro. (Poder – tener)
Él __________ mucho en el trabajo últimamente. (Andar – quejarse)
Mis padres __________ de preparar la cena. (Acabar de – preparar)
Desde hace años, ella __________ en la misma empresa. (Llevar – trabajar)
El maestro dijo que __________ más para el examen. (Tener que – estudiar)
Después del accidente, él __________ caminar lentamente. (Ir – recuperar)
El cielo está nublado, __________ a llover pronto. (Estar por – llover)
Siempre __________ levantarse temprano para hacer ejercicio. (Solía – levantarse)
El niño __________ llorar cuando vio su juguete roto. (Echarse a – llorar)

Answers

(Complete the sentences with the correct perífrasis verbal. The correct answer is in bold.)

Mañana voy a viajar a la playa con mis amigos.
Tomorrow I am going to travel to the beach with my friends.
El tren está por salir en cinco minutos.
The train is about to leave in five minutes.
Para ser saludable, hay que comer frutas y verduras.
To be healthy, one must eat fruits and vegetables.
Mis abuelos suelen ver la televisión todas las noches.
My grandparents usually watch television every night.
No puedo hablar ahora, estoy hablando con el director.
I can’t talk now, I am talking with the director.
Después de muchos intentos, acabé consiguiendo ganar el torneo.
After many attempts, I ended up managing to win the tournament.
¿Vas a volver a llamarme más tarde?
Are you going to call me again later?
Es tarde, ya debe de estar en casa.
It’s late, he must be at home already.
Mi hermano dejó de tocar el violín hace dos años.
My brother stopped playing the violin two years ago.
Mis amigos piensan mudarse a otra ciudad.
My friends are planning to move to another city.
Cuando terminó la película, todos se pusieron a aplaudir.
When the movie ended, everyone started clapping.
Si sigues así, puedes tener problemas en el futuro.
If you continue like this, you might have problems in the future.
Él anda quejándose mucho en el trabajo últimamente.
He has been complaining a lot at work lately.
Mis padres acaban de preparar la cena.
My parents just finished preparing dinner.
Desde hace años, ella lleva trabajando en la misma empresa.
She has been working at the same company for years.
El maestro dijo que tenemos que estudiar más para el examen.
The teacher said that we have to study more for the exam.
Después del accidente, él va recuperando la capacidad de caminar.
After the accident, he is gradually recovering his ability to walk.
El cielo está nublado, está por llover pronto.
The sky is cloudy, it is about to rain soon.
Siempre solía levantarse temprano para hacer ejercicio.
He used to get up early to exercise.
El niño se echó a llorar cuando vio su juguete roto.
The child started crying when he saw his broken toy.

Summary: Key Takeaways on Perífrasis Verbales

Perífrasis verbales are verb phrases formed by combining an auxiliary verb and a main verb (infinitive, gerund, or participle).
They help express time, aspect, and modality in Spanish.
They can be grouped into six main categories based on their function:
- To express the future or intention: Ir a + infinitive, Estar por + infinitive
- To express obligation or necessity: Tener que + infinitive, Haber que + infinitive
- To express habit or repetition: Soler + infinitive, Andar + gerundio, Volver a + infinitive
- To express progress or continuity: Estar + gerundio, Llevar + gerundio, Seguir + gerundio, Ir + gerundio
- To express completion or result: Acabar de + infinitive, Acabar + gerundio, Dejar de + infinitive, Tener + participio
- To express probability or assumption: Deber de + infinitive, Poder + infinitive
Each periphrasis has specific grammar rules and conjugation patterns based on tense and subject.
Some tricky points and exceptions include:
- “Haber que” is always used impersonally (e.g., Hay que estudiar – One must study).
- “Deber de” expresses probability (Debe de estar en casa – He must be at home), while “deber” alone expresses obligation (Debes estudiar – You must study).
- “Ir + gerundio” implies gradual progress rather than a general present action.

Conclusion

Mastering perífrasis verbales is essential for achieving fluency in Spanish, especially at an advanced level. These verb constructions help convey nuance, intention, progression, obligation, and probability, making your speech and writing sound more natural and precise.

By understanding the different types of periphrasis and their specific uses, you can express yourself more effectively in various contexts. Whether you are talking about the future, describing habits, or indicating probability, using these structures correctly will improve your communication skills and comprehension.

To reinforce your learning:

Practice regularly by using these structures in daily conversations.
Read books, articles, and listen to native speakers to see them in real use.
Do exercises and quizzes to test your understanding.

With continuous exposure and practice, you will develop greater confidence and fluency in using perífrasis verbales naturally in Spanish! 🚀✨

💡 Which perífrasis verbal do you use the most in Spanish? Share your thoughts in the comments below! I’d love to hear how you use these expressions in daily conversations.

📢 Learning is more fun together! Share this post with your friends and fellow Spanish learners. 🚀

If you enjoyed this lesson, be sure to check out more posts like this on my blog at My Language Classes. Don’t forget to subscribe my YouTube channel and follow me on Instagram for the latest language learning tips and lessons. Leave a comment below to share your thoughts, or ask any questions you have about nouns.

Happy learning! 😊

Mastering the Present Indicative Mode in Spanish (Regular verbs)

Imperative Mode in Spanish

Preterite Tense (Pretérito Indefinido) in Spanish

Imperfect Tense (Pretérito Imperfecto) in Spanish

Future Simple Tense in Spanish

Spanish Conditional Tense (Condicional Simple)

Present Perfect Tense (Pretérito Perfecto de Indicativo) in Spanish

Understanding the Subjunctive Mood in Spanish

Understanding the Present Subjunctive (Presente de Subjuntivo) in Spanish

Pretérito Pluscuamperfecto (Past Perfect) in Spanish

Pretérito Indefinido vs. Imperfecto – Usage and Contrast Between Two Types of Past Tense in Spanish