Question

Difficulty: EasyModal Auxiliaries and Expressing Modality

Fill in the blank with the modal auxiliary verb that correctly expresses present ability.

Answer:Although she is only ten years old, Amina 【can】 play the violin exceptionally well.

Answer

can
The modal auxiliary 'can' is used to denote general physical or mental ability in the present tense, which matches the clue 'is only ten years old'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence to identify the required aspect of modality.
The sentence describes an existing skill or capability in the present time ('is only ten years old').
Determining the correct modal verb requires identifying both the function (ability) and time frame (present).
2
Select the appropriate modal auxiliary verb expressing present capability.
The modal verb 'can' correctly expresses present ability.
'Can' is standard in English grammar for indicating present capability or skill.

Key Concept

Expressing Present Ability using Modal Auxiliaries
Estimated Time:45s
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