1. Expressing degrees of likelihood.

Put the sentences into one of the two boxes below.

2. Expressions of likelihood.

Could is a modal verb. Probably is not a modal verb – it is an adverb.

Divide the expressions below into modal and non-modal expressions of likelihood.

For more information about likelihood and probability see the Grammar Reference.

3. Expressions of likelihood.

Complete the second sentence using the word given so that it is similar in meaning to the first sentence.
First, check the meaning of these words: funding, naked eye.

The asteroid probably won't hit us. unlikely
--> The asteroid is unlikely to hit us.

4. Nouns used with reported clauses.

Complete the sentences by putting the words below into the gaps.

5. One word.

Without looking at the previous exercise, what one word could fit into the spaces?

1. The IAU predicted ___ it would happen at 6:30 p.m. on October 26, 2028.
2. Scientists gave apocalyptic warnings ___ the asteroid would collide with Earth.
3. Scientists warned ___ a collision could not be ruled out.
4. NASA has rubbished the IAU's report ___ an asteroid could collide with Earth.
5. NASA has claimed ___ the chances of a direct hit are zero.

6. Reported clauses.

That introduces a reported clause. The report word can be a verb or a noun.

NASA claims that the chances are zero.
I don't believe NASA's claim that the chances are zero.


The table below contains more words that introduce reported clauses. Type in the missing form of the word.

7. Matching.

Match the sentence beginnings with the endings.

8. Can you remember?

Here are the sentences from the previous exercise again. Try and complete them from memory.

9. Using do for contrastive emphasis.

Do can be used with a positive verb for emphasis. Do is used in this way when we want to correct or contradict information:

I know you're not going out, but if you do go out, dress up warmly.

Do is also used in this way when we want to imagine the consequences of an impossible or very unlikely situation:

If the asteroid did collide with Earth it would do so at more than 17,000 mph.

Do is not necessary when there is already an auxiliary verb:

If the asteroid was on a collision course with Earth, a way to alter its orbit would have to be found.
He's not my type of person, but you're right, he is very charming.

To emphasise an auxiliary verb, decontract it and stress it:

He's not very charming.
On the contrary, I think he is very charming.


Make the phrases in bold more emphatic by using do and by expanding contractions where necessary. Remember to include punctuation.

I'm not surprised I failed the exam, but I'm annoyed about it.
but I am annoyed