Question

My brother, who is a wrestler, ________ lift this heavy pole.
A) Can
B) Should
C) May
D) Might
E) Must
F) could

Answer 1

Hint: This question is about Modal verbs. These are those verbal words which can be used to express probabilities, possibilities and/or necessities. While working with modals, keep in mind the function of each modal and answer accordingly. Also focus on the tense of the given sentence as that can affect the modal verb to be used in the sentence.

Complete answer:
Now let us analyze the given options:
Option (A)- Can- is correct as it is used to describe the capability of something/someone and that is exactly what is required in the given question.
Option (B)- Should- is incorrect as it is used to describe the probability or obligation whereas the required modal has to be about the capability of the subject.
Option (C)- May- is incorrect as it is used for showing the probability and not the capability of the subject making it incorrect.
Option (D)- Might- is incorrect as it is used for showing the probability but we required a word showing capability of the subject.
Option (E)- Must- is incorrect as it is used for expressing obligation and not capability of the subject.
Option (F)- could- is incorrect as it is used for showing capabilities, but in the past tense. It is wrong because the sentence is in present

Therefore the correct answer is option ‘A’.

Note: Tips for working with modal that verbs must be kept in mind are as follows:
- Always remember the proper usage of the modal before using one. Keep in mind the unique usage of the modal verbs before using them in any sentences.
- Make sure the tense matches with the tense of the sentence. Matching the tense of the modal verbs and the sentence is important to maintain a continuity and sense of the sentence.
- Focus more on the meaning of the sentence to get cues about the context of modal. Try to understand what is demanded in the sentence and answer accordingly.