Modal verb?
I arrived at the cinema early in order that I could/would/might/should not miss the beginning of the film.
I'd like to know which modal verb should be used, could or would or might or should in the sentence. Can I use all of them?
Top answer
“would” is the logical verb – it is the probable outcome of arriving early. “could” is unlikely, since it approximates that it is a sure thing (could not miss). “might” is less appropriate, as it gives it just a chance being in time.
- “would” is the logical verb – it is the probable outcome of arriving early.
- “could” is unlikely, since it approximates that it is a sure thing (could not miss).
- “might” is less appropriate, as it gives it just a chance being in time.
- “should” implies it would be a failure of duty to miss the beginning.
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“would” is the logical verb – it is the probable outcome of arriving early.
“could” is unlikely, since it approximates that it is a sure thing (could not miss).
“might” is less appropriate, as it gives it just a chance being in time.
“should” implies it would be a failure of duty to miss the beginning.
0In BrE, "should" here is a traditional or formal alternative to "would" (without any connotations of obligation). To me it sounds OK, but to some younger people it may sound old-fashioned or a bit stilted.
In ordinary conversation I think most people would say "so (that) I wouldn't ...".
0Thein Lwin 7291I arrived at the cinema early in order that I could/would/might/should not miss the beginning of the film.I've put it into the simple present like this: "I arrive at the cinema early so I will not miss the beginning of the film." Hence "would" in the simple past.
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