I’m Not Sure: Possibility And Certainty

Key Vocabulary for Possibility and Certainty

• Possibility – Something that might happen or be true.

• Certainty – Something that is definitely true or will definitely happen.

• Uncertainty – The state of being unsure about something.

• Decision – A choice made after considering options.

• Forecast – A prediction of future events or trends.

• Expectation – What you think will happen.

• Risk – The chance of something going wrong.

• Assumption – Something taken to be true without proof.

Using May, Might, Could, and Must

1. May (For possibility or permission)

May is used to show that something is possible or to ask for permission.

• Example for possibility:
  “The new product may launch next month, but we are still waiting for approval.”

• Example for permission:
  “May I leave early today to attend a meeting?”

2. Might (For less certain possibility)

Might suggests that something is possible but less certain than may.

• Example for possibility:
  “We might need to reschedule the meeting if the client doesn’t confirm their availability.”

3. Could (For potential or ability)

Could is used to show potential or ability in the future.

• Example for potential:
  “The project could take longer than expected if we don’t receive the resources on time.”

• Example for ability:
  “I could help with the presentation if you need assistance.”

4. Must (For certainty or strong necessity)

Must expresses certainty, obligation, or strong necessity.

• Example for certainty:
  “The report must be submitted by Friday to meet the deadline.”

• Example for obligation:
  “You must attend the training session tomorrow.”

Example Paragraph Using May, Might, Could, and Must

The marketing team is discussing the launch of a new advertising campaign. Sarah says, “The campaign may increase our sales, but we need to track the results closely.” James adds, “It might take longer than we thought to finalize the creative materials.” Laura, the project manager, mentions, “The client could approve the campaign next week, but it depends on their review process.” Sarah responds, “We must complete the budget review before moving forward with the next phase of the campaign.”

Final Thoughts

Understanding how to express possibility and certainty in business can help avoid misunderstandings and set clear expectations. May, might, could, and must are important tools for discussing potential outcomes, making decisions, and establishing requirements. By using these modals appropriately, business professionals can communicate more effectively and make more informed decisions.

By mastering these modal verbs, you can express possibilities, show uncertainty, or give clear instructions and advice, which are essential for successful business communication. To learn more simply book a lesson with us at First Business English.

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