Modal verbs are verbs that, like auxiliaries, “help” other verbs: in this case, they add information to their basic meaning.
The modal verbs, also called serviles (servili), are Dovere, Potere, and Volere. These three verbs have their own independent meaning.
- Ti devo ancora un cena.
- I still owe you dinner.
- Non ne posso più di questo lavoro.
- I can’t stand this job anymore.
- Voglio un gelato al limone.
- I want lemon ice cream.
However, they can also act as modal verbs and support the infinitive of another verb, expressing a precise “modality” of it:
- Necessità (need): Polo deve andare (Polo has to go).
- Possibilità (possibility): Paolo può andare (Polo can go).
- Volontà (will): Paolo vuole andare (Polo wants to go).
The verbs Solere and Sapere are also considered modal verbs, but only when they are used with certain meanings:
- Solere, with the meaning of essere solito:
- Era solito bersi una tazza di tè ogni pomeriggio.
- He used to have a cup of tea every afternoon.
- Sapere with the meaning of essere in grado di:
- Emma sa badare a sé stessa.
- Emma can take care of herself.
Some grammarians (but it is a controversial issue) also include other verbs such as osare, preferire, desiderare in this category:
- Non oserà mai ricorrere a tali stratagemmi.
- He will never dare to resort to such stratagems
- Preferirebbe sparire nel nulla.
- He would rather disappear into thin air.
- Desideravo solo essere lasciato in pace.
- I just wanted to be left alone.