This quiz works best with JavaScript enabled.
Home
>
English Grammar
>
Grammar
>
Parts Of Speech
>
Adverbs
>
Modal Adverbs – Quiz 1
Modal Adverbs Quiz 1 (30 MCQs)
This multiple-choice question set evaluates students' understanding and application of modal adverbs, particularly in expressing certainty, possibility, necessity, and obligation. It covers various contexts including future predictions, probability expressions, and argumentative essays. The test aims to assess the ability to use modal adverbs effectively to convey specific meanings and nuances.
Quiz Instructions
Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.
1.
Argumentative essays all depend on the ..... , and what side he or she supports the most.
A) Writer.
B) Listener.
C) Reader.
D) Speaker.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The argumentative essay depends on the writer and the stance they take, as the writer is responsible for choosing a side and supporting it throughout the essay.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. The writer determines the argument and supports one side.
Option B:
Incorrect. The listener does not influence the content of an argumentative essay.
Option C:
Incorrect. While readers are important, they do not determine the argument in an argumentative essay.
Option D:
Incorrect. There is no speaker involved in a written argumentative essay; it is a form of writing.
2.
The concert started ..... but it did not sustain the interest of the audience. (In a promising manner)
A) Decidedly.
B) Certainly.
C) Promisingly.
D) Permissively.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Promisingly" is the correct choice because it indicates that the concert began in a way that suggested it would be enjoyable, but then did not live up to this initial impression. This adverb effectively conveys an initial positive expectation followed by disappointment.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Decidedly" means firmly or definitely, which does not fit the context of a promising start that later faltered.
Option B:
"Certainly" is used to express strong agreement or assurance, and it doesn't capture the idea of an initial positive impression followed by a letdown.
Option C:
"Promisingly" correctly conveys that the concert started in a way that suggested it would be interesting but then failed to maintain this interest. This is why it is correct.
Option D:
"Permissively" means allowing or permitting, which does not fit the context of describing how the concert began and its subsequent impact on audience interest.
3.
This time of pandemic, we ..... observe social distancing.
A) Should.
B) Must.
C) Shall.
D) May.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Must" is the correct answer because it conveys a strong obligation, which aligns with the necessity of observing social distancing during a pandemic. Modal adverbs like "must" indicate a high level of necessity or requirement.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Should - suggests a recommendation rather than a strict requirement.
Option B:
Must - indicates a strong obligation, fitting the context perfectly.
Option C:
Shall - can be used formally but is less common in casual contexts and doesn't convey as strong an obligation as "must."
Option D:
May - implies permission or possibility rather than a necessity.
4.
It is used to state that something good might happen.
A) Possibly.
B) Necessarily.
C) Requisitely.
D) Likely.
E) Permissively.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option D) Likely is correct because it indicates a possibility that something good might happen, which aligns with the statement's meaning.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Possibly - While similar, possibly does not convey as strong a likelihood.
Option B:
Necessarily - This implies certainty, not possibility.
Option C:
Requisitely - This means required or necessary, which is incorrect here.
Option D:
Likely - Correct as it indicates a probable but not certain outcome.
Option E:
Permissively - This implies permission rather than possibility of occurrence.
5.
..... it rained last night.
A) Certainly.
B) Perhaps.
C) Definitely.
D) Probably.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "It rained last night" is a statement of fact, but the question asks for an adverb that expresses uncertainty about this fact. The modal adverb "Perhaps" (Option B) indicates a degree of doubt or possibility without asserting certainty or definiteness.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Certainly - This option asserts certainty, which is not appropriate for expressing uncertainty.
Option B:
Perhaps - This option expresses a moderate level of uncertainty, fitting the context well.
Option C:
Definitely - This option asserts definiteness, which contradicts the uncertain nature implied by "it rained last night."
Option D:
Probably - While this does express some degree of likelihood, it is more definitive than "Perhaps" and thus less suitable for the given context.
6.
You ..... not forget to wear your face mask and face shield.
A) Must.
B) Might.
C) Could.
D) May.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Must" is the correct modal adverb in this context because it expresses a strong obligation or necessity, indicating that wearing both a face mask and a face shield is required.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Must" conveys a high level of necessity.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Might" suggests possibility, not obligation.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Could" implies ability or possibility, not strong necessity.
Option D:
Incorrect. "May" indicates permission or possibility, not a strong requirement.
7.
It is used to state something that is essential or important for a particular purpose.
A) Possibly.
B) Likely.
C) Permissively.
D) Requisitely.
E) Necessarily.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Requisitely is the correct answer because it indicates something that is essential or necessary for a particular purpose, aligning with the given context of stating something important.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Possibly - This suggests a possibility rather than necessity.
Option B:
Likely - This implies probability but not certainty or necessity.
Option C:
Permissively - This means allowing something, which is unrelated to the context of essentiality.
Option D:
Requisitely - This accurately conveys that something is necessary for a particular purpose.
Option E:
Necessarily - While this does indicate necessity, it is less formal than "requisitely" and not typically used in the same context as the other options provided.
8.
Determine the function of the modal verb "can" . I can play any musical instrument.
A) Ability.
B) Truth.
C) Promise.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The modal verb "can" in the sentence "I can play any musical instrument" indicates ability. It expresses a capability or proficiency to perform an action.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Can" is used here to express ability.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Truth" refers to factual statements, not abilities.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Promise" involves a commitment or agreement, which is not the case with "can."
Option D:
Incorrect. There is a correct answer among the options provided.
9.
Which modal adverb shows something that is certain to happen?
A) Exactly.
B) Maybe.
C) Perhaps.
D) Definitely.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Definitely" is a modal adverb that indicates certainty, showing something will happen without any doubt.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Exactly" implies precision rather than certainty about an event.
Option B:
"Maybe" suggests uncertainty or possibility, not certainty.
Option C:
"Perhaps" also indicates a possibility and is not used to show certainty.
Option D:
"Definitely" clearly shows something that will certainly happen.
10.
In August it will ..... be quite hot.
A) Exactly.
B) Probably.
C) Really.
D) Clearly.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Probably" is the correct answer because it indicates a high likelihood but not absolute certainty, which is typical for weather predictions in general terms like "it will be quite hot." Modal adverbs express degrees of possibility or certainty.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Exactly" suggests certainty without any doubt, which doesn't fit the context of a weather prediction.
Option B:
"Probably" indicates a high likelihood but not absolute certainty, fitting well for a general statement about future weather conditions.
Option C:
"Really" is an adverb used to emphasize something and doesn't convey the degree of possibility or certainty needed here.
Option D:
"Clearly" suggests obviousness or definiteness, which isn't appropriate for a prediction about future weather conditions.
11.
I have to ..... answer my homework. (Used to state something that is essential or important for a particular purpose)
A) Decidedly.
B) Permissively.
C) Certainly.
D) Requisitely.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The modal adverb "requisitely" is the correct choice because it emphasizes that answering the homework is essential or necessary for a particular purpose, aligning with the context of the sentence. It conveys a sense of necessity and importance in fulfilling an obligation.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Decidedly" suggests a firm decision but does not emphasize necessity as strongly.
Option B:
"Permissively" implies allowing or permitting, which contradicts the essential nature of the task.
Option C:
"Certainly" means sure or definitely, but it is less formal and precise than "requisitely" in this context.
Option D:
"Requisitely" correctly conveys that answering the homework is essential for a particular purpose.
12.
Complete the sentence using modal noun. It is my ..... to make my assignments on time. (The quality of being responsible)
A) Possibility.
B) Responsibility.
C) Chance.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
B) Responsibility.
The sentence "It is my responsibility to make my assignments on time" accurately conveys the quality of being responsible, which aligns with the context provided in the question. Modal nouns are used to express qualities or states, and "responsibility" fits this requirement perfectly.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Possibility does not fit as it refers to what is possible, not a quality of being responsible.
Option B:
Responsibility is correct as it expresses the state or quality of being accountable for one's actions, which matches the context.
Option C:
Chance implies an opportunity or possibility, not a consistent quality like responsibility.
Option D:
None of the above is incorrect since option B is valid.
13.
The bailiff had a grip on the prisoner's arm.
A) Certainly.
B) Certain.
C) Plausibly.
D) Sure.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "The bailiff had a grip on the prisoner's arm." uses the modal adverb "certainly" to emphasize certainty or firmness in the action described. This word is used here to convey that the bailiff’s hold was not just strong but also resolute and definite.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Certainly" emphasizes the strength and definitiveness of the grip, fitting well with the context.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Certain" does not carry the same emphasis as "certainly." It would imply a degree of certainty but lacks the firmness conveyed by "certainly."
Option C:
Incorrect. "Plausibly" suggests that the grip is possible or reasonable, which does not match the strong and definite nature implied in the sentence.
Option D:
Incorrect. "Sure" is a colloquial term for certainty but lacks the formal tone and emphasis of "certainly."
14.
Both sides of an argumentative essay could be presented as balanced.
A) Uequal.
B) Both.
C) Equally.
D) Competitively.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The term "competitively" implies that both sides of the argument are presented with equal weight and importance, engaging in a balanced debate. This aligns with the requirement for presenting both sides of an argumentative essay as balanced.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Unequal - Incorrect; does not match the definition of "competitively".
Option B:
Both - Too vague, does not specify equal treatment.
Option C:
Equally - While close, "competitively" better captures the idea of a balanced debate.
Option D:
Competitively - Correct; accurately describes presenting both sides with equal weight and importance in an argumentative essay.
15.
I hear a whistle. That ..... be the five o'clock alarm bell.
A) Would.
B) Might.
C) Should.
D) Must.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "I hear a whistle. That would be the five o'clock alarm bell." uses the modal adverb "would" to express a possibility based on past habits or expectations, indicating that it is likely but not certain that the alarm bell is ringing.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Would" implies a habitual or expected situation.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Might" suggests a less definite possibility.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Should" expresses obligation or expectation, not mere possibility.
Option D:
Incorrect. "Must" indicates certainty, which is not the case here.
16.
Determine the function of the modal verb "could" . Could you open the door for me?
A) Offer.
B) Permission.
C) Request.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Could you open the door for me?" is a polite request asking someone to perform an action. The modal verb "could" here softens the request, making it more polite and less direct than using "can."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Offer - Incorrect. It's not offering something but requesting.
Option B:
Permission - Incorrect. It’s a request for an action, not permission to do something.
Option C:
Request - Correct. The sentence is clearly asking someone to perform an action politely.
Option D:
None of above - Incorrect. Option C fits the context perfectly.
17.
My parents ..... work hard for our family to sustain our needs. (In an obligate or necessary manner)
A) Requisitely.
B) Ably.
C) Obligately.
D) Promisingly.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Obligately means in an obligatory or necessary manner, which fits the context of parents working hard to sustain family needs. This option accurately conveys that their work is essential and required.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Requisitely - implies necessity but does not fit as well as "obligately" in this context.
Option B:
Ably - means skillfully or efficiently, which is not the intended meaning here.
Option C:
Obligately - correctly conveys that their work is necessary and required for sustaining family needs.
Option D:
Promisingly - suggests a hopeful outlook, which does not fit the context of hard work to sustain needs.
18.
Directions:Choose the corresponding modal adverb to complete the sentence.He is ..... competent to win the contest.
A) Permissively.
B) Ably.
C) Decidedly.
D) Necessarily.
E) Certainly.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence requires a modal adverb that indicates the person is highly capable of winning the contest. "Ably" (Option B) means effectively or skillfully, which fits well in this context to convey high competence.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Permissively - implies allowing or permitting, not suitable for indicating capability.
Option B:
Ably - indicates effective or skillful performance, correct choice.
Option C:
Decidedly - means firmly or definitely, but does not convey the same level of competence as "ably" in this context.
Option D:
Necessarily - implies something is required or inevitable, not appropriate here.
Option E:
Certainly - suggests certainty, which while positive, doesn't specifically indicate capability like "ably" does.
19.
It is my ..... to make my assignments on time. (the quality or state of being responsible)
A) Certainty.
B) Responsibility.
C) Ability.
D) Possibility.
E) Permission.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "It is my responsibility to make my assignments on time" indicates the quality of being accountable and answerable for one's duties, which aligns with the definition of
responsibility
. This term accurately describes the state or quality of being responsible.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Certainty - refers to a state of being sure about something, not related to accountability.
Option B:
Responsibility - correctly denotes the state or quality of being accountable and answerable for one's duties.
Option C:
Ability - refers to the power or skill to do something, not directly related to accountability.
Option D:
Possibility - means that something can happen or be done, unrelated to accountability.
Option E:
Permission - implies approval for doing something, not related to being accountable.
20.
..... it will rain tomorrow.
A) Certainly.
B) Absolutely.
C) Really.
D) Maybe.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Maybe" is the correct answer because it accurately reflects the uncertain nature of the statement "it will rain tomorrow." Modal adverbs like "maybe" express possibility without certainty, which fits this scenario appropriately.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Certainly" implies absolute certainty, contradicting the uncertainty in the original statement.
Option B:
"Absolutely" also suggests complete certainty, not matching the uncertain tone of the given sentence.
Option C:
"Really" is an adverb used to emphasize a statement but does not indicate possibility or uncertainty.
Option D:
"Maybe" correctly conveys that it is possible but not certain that it will rain tomorrow, aligning with the modal adverb's function of expressing possibility.
21.
Kevin's brother ..... has a good chance of winning the race-he's such a fast runner!
A) Probably.
B) Absolutely.
C) Certainly.
D) Definitely.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Certainly" is the correct choice because it expresses a high degree of certainty, indicating that Kevin's brother has a very good chance of winning the race due to his fast running ability.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Probably" suggests a moderate level of certainty, which does not match the strong implication in the sentence.
Option B:
"Absolutely" implies complete certainty without any doubt, which is too strong given the context of the sentence.
Option C:
"Certainly" indicates a high degree of certainty, fitting well with the statement about Kevin's brother being a fast runner and having a good chance of winning.
Option D:
"Definitely" also implies complete certainty, which is too strong for this context compared to "Certainly."
22.
Valenzuelano learners are ..... receiving their learning modules.
A) Joyfully.
B) Availability.
C) Negatively.
D) Decidedly.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Valenzuelano learners are receiving their learning modules joyfully indicates a positive attitude towards the process of learning, which is appropriate for modal adverbs expressing manner or degree. "Joyfully" describes how the action (receiving) is performed and fits well with the context.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Joyfully" expresses a positive manner in which the learners are receiving their modules.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Availability" does not describe how the action is performed but rather refers to the state of being present or accessible.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Negatively" would imply a negative manner, which contradicts the context of joyful learning.
Option D:
Incorrect. "Decidedly" suggests firmness or determination and does not fit the context of expressing joy in receiving modules.
23.
My mother gave me the ..... to play after I do my homework. (the right or ability to do something given by someone who has the power to allow or disallow)
A) Certainty.
B) Permission.
C) Possibility.
D) Responsibility.
E) Ability.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
B) Permission.
The word "permission" fits the context of receiving a right or ability from someone who has the power to allow or disallow an action, in this case, playing after completing homework.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Certainty - This does not fit the context as it refers to being sure about something.
Option B:
Permission - Correct. It means the right or ability given by someone who has the power to allow or disallow an action, fitting the context perfectly.
Option C:
Possibility - This implies a potential but not necessarily granted right or ability.
<
Option D:
Responsibility - This refers to duties one is required to perform, which does not fit the context of receiving a right or ability.
Option E:
Ability - While related, it does not capture the concept of being granted a right by someone else.
24.
I love my mother without a doubt.
A) Promisingly.
B) Requisitely.
C) Responsibly.
D) Certainly.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The modal adverb "certainly" is used to express certainty, which aligns with the meaning of the sentence "I love my mother without a doubt." This choice accurately conveys the speaker's strong conviction in their statement.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Promisingly - This adverb suggests hope or expectation but does not convey certainty.
Option B:
Requisitely - This term means necessary or required, which is not related to expressing certainty in this context.
Option C:
Responsibly - This adverb indicates a sense of duty or obligation, unrelated to the expression of certainty here.
Option D:
Certainly - This modal adverb perfectly matches the meaning and usage in the sentence, expressing strong conviction without any doubt.
25.
D. Teachers (necessarily, promisingly, possibly) conduct home visits to learners who have problems in their grades and classroom behavior.
A) Necessarily.
B) Promisingly.
C) Possibly.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Teachers necessarily conduct home visits to learners who have problems in their grades and classroom behavior because the statement implies a requirement or obligation for teachers to do so when such issues arise.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. The word "necessarily" indicates that this action is required or mandatory.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Promisingly" suggests a hopeful outcome, which does not fit the context of an obligation.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Possibly" means something may happen but is not certain, contradicting the requirement stated in the sentence.
Option D:
Incorrect. At least one option (A) is correct, so this cannot be the answer.
26.
It is used to state that something is possible to happen.
A) Permissively.
B) Necessarily.
C) Possibly.
D) Likely.
E) Requisitely.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option C) Possibly is correct because it indicates that something can happen, which aligns with the statement that "something is possible to happen."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Permissively - refers to permission or allowance, not possibility.
Option B:
Necessarily - means something must happen, not just can happen.
Option C:
Possibly - correctly indicates that something is possible to happen.
Option D:
Likely - suggests a higher probability of occurrence than possibility.
Option E:
Requisitely - means required or necessary, not just possible.
27.
Directions:Choose the corresponding modal adverb to complete the sentence.Attendance is ..... needed to receive a certificate of participation in seminars and workshops.
A) Ably.
B) Permissively.
C) Decidedly.
D) Certainly.
E) Necessarily.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence requires a modal adverb that emphasizes the necessity of attendance for receiving a certificate. "Necessarily" (Option E) is the most appropriate choice as it clearly indicates that attendance must be present to achieve the outcome.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Ably - This means skillfully or efficiently, which does not fit the context of necessity.
Option B:
Permissively - This implies allowing something to happen, which contradicts the need for a mandatory action.
Option C:
Decidedly - This suggests a firm decision but does not convey the sense of requirement as strongly as "necessarily."
Option D:
Certainly - While this means definitely or surely, it is less forceful than "necessarily" in indicating a strict requirement.
Option E:
Necessarily - This adverb correctly conveys that attendance is required to receive the certificate of participation.
28.
In this statement, "Marky's brother certainly has a good chance of winning the race-he's such a fast runner." What is the modal adverb used?
A) Good.
B) Fast.
C) Runner.
D) Certainly.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The modal adverb used in the statement is "certainly." It modifies the verb "has" and expresses a high degree of certainty about the likelihood of Marky's brother winning the race.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Good - An adjective, not an adverb.
Option B:
Fast - An adjective describing how the brother runs.
Option C:
Runner - A noun referring to someone who runs.
Option D:
Certainly - Correct. It is a modal adverb expressing certainty.
29.
E. Teachers (surely, decidedly, likely) dedicate themselves to guide the learners.
A) Surely.
B) Decidedly.
C) Likely.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Decidedly" is the correct choice because it emphasizes a strong and firm commitment, which accurately reflects the dedicated nature of teachers in guiding learners. "Surely" often implies certainty about an outcome rather than dedication, while "likely" suggests a possibility or probability that does not fully capture the steadfastness of teachers' efforts.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Surely - Implies certainty about the outcome rather than the dedication.
Option B:
Decidedly - Emphasizes a strong and firm commitment, fitting for describing teachers’ dedication.
Option C:
Likely - Suggests probability or possibility, not the steadfastness of dedication.
Option D:
None of above - Incorrect as "Decidedly" is the correct choice.
30.
Directions:Choose the corresponding modal adverb to complete the sentence.The sun will ..... shine tomorrow.
A) Ably.
B) Permissively.
C) Necessarily.
D) Decidedly.
E) Certainly.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "The sun will ... shine tomorrow" requires a modal adverb that indicates certainty about the future event. "Certainly" is the most appropriate choice as it conveys a high degree of confidence in the statement, making it suitable for expressing certainty about something that is expected to happen.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Ably - This adverb means skillfully or efficiently. It does not fit the context of expressing certainty.
Option B:
Permissively - This adverb refers to allowing something, which is unrelated to expressing certainty about a future event.
Option C:
Necessarily - While this word can indicate that something must happen, it often implies a logical or inevitable necessity rather than a simple prediction of the future. It might be too strong for this context.
Option D:
Decidedly - This adverb means firmly or decidedly, but it is not as commonly used to express certainty about future events compared to "certainly."
Option E:
Certainly - This adverb perfectly fits the context of expressing a high degree of confidence in the prediction that the sun will shine tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are modal adverbs, and how do they differ from other types of adverbs?
Modal adverbs modify verbs to indicate certainty, possibility, or necessity. They differ from other adverbs as they often express degrees of likelihood or obligation, such as 'certainly' or 'probably,' whereas non-modal adverbs typically describe how an action is performed.
Can you give examples of modal adverbs used in argumentative essays?
Certainly! Modal adverbs like 'obviously,' 'undoubtedly,' and 'clearly' can be used to strengthen arguments, while 'perhaps' or 'possibly' can introduce more tentative claims. These help shape the tone and persuasiveness of your essay.
How do modal adverbs of necessity differ from those of obligation?
Modal adverbs of necessity, such as 'must' or 'have to,' emphasize the requirement due to external factors. In contrast, modal adverbs of obligation, like 'should' or 'ought to,' suggest a moral or social duty, often based on internal values.
What is the role of modal adverbs in expressing ability?
Modal adverbs can indicate capability or proficiency, such as 'can,' 'could,' and 'able to.' They are used to express what someone is capable of doing, often in a more nuanced way than simple verbs like 'can' alone.
How do modal adverbs of certainty help in writing?
Modal adverbs of certainty, such as 'definitely,' 'surely,' and 'certainly,' are used to express high confidence or assurance about something. They enhance the clarity and strength of your statements, making them more convincing.