What are auxiliary verbs, and how do you correctly use them in a sentence?
AUXILIARY VERBS – They are known as helping verbs, and they are used together with a main verb. Here’s how to correctly use “will/would” and “shall/should.”
Also known as helper verbs or helping verbs are auxiliary verbs. They are minor verbs that support the main verb of a sentence. They are used to create complex grammatical tenses, like the perfect and continuous tenses. This shows the different aspects of time, or how long an action has occurred.
The main auxiliary verbs are be, do, and have, but here’s a further understanding of “will/would” and “shall/should” and how they are used in a sentence.
Shall is used in the first person, singular and plural (I/we) and will is used in the second and third person, singular and plural,
(you, he/she/it, they).
| singular | plural | |
| First | I shall | We shall |
| Second | you will | you will |
| Third | he/she/it will | they will |
| Will | Would | Shall | Should |
| 1. used to show desire, preference, choice, or consent Examples: I will accept the job offer. Will you please be silent? 2. used to show the future Examples: It will be a fun game! I will probably get sick after this trip. 3. used to express capability Examples: This wallet will hold all of your cards. This cup will be great for your coffee. 4. used to express determination or insistence Examples: I will be a great doctor! I will pass this test. | 1. used to show preference Examples: I would rather go to the mall. She would rather eat an egg for breakfast. 2. used to show a wish Examples: I would like to be free. I would like some donuts. 3. used for advice Examples: If I were you, I would choose the red car. If I were you, I will get the bigger offer. | 1. used to make a suggestion Examples: Shall I go now? Shall we dance? 2. used to express obligation in very formal situations Examples: We shall obey what father says. Students shall not enter this area. There shall be no food or drinks inside the gym. | 1. used to give an opinion, to make a suggestion, express a preference, or an idea Examples: You should stay inside if you are feeling sick. I should walk to work from now on. He should be more open to hearing the ideas of other people. 2. used to ask for an opinion Should we tell him about the accident? What should we do now? |