Question

Do as directed :
He could be treated at the cancer hospital in the city.
[Pick out the modal auxiliary and state its function]

Hint:

Common functions of modal auxiliaries include expressing ability (can/could), permission (may/can), possibility (may/might/could), advice (should), and obligation (must/have to). Look at the context of the sentence to determine the specific function.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
We need to identify the modal auxiliary verb in the given sentence and explain its function or what it expresses.
Step 2: Identifying the Modal Auxiliary:
Modal auxiliaries are verbs like can, could, may, might, will, would, shall, should, must. In the sentence "He could be treated...", the modal auxiliary is could.
Step 3: Stating its Function:
In this context, "could" is used to express possibility. It indicates that it was possible for him to be treated at the hospital. It can also imply ability.
- Function: Expressing possibility or ability in the past.
Step 4: Final Answer:
- Modal Auxiliary: could
- Function: It expresses possibility.