Expressing expectations
B2 Upper IntermediateExpressing expectations involves using modal verbs with the continuous aspect to describe what is likely happening now or what is anticipated in the future. These forms combine modal probability with the ongoing nature of an action.
Overview
When we want to talk about what we expect is happening at this very moment, or what we assume will be happening at a specific time in the future, we use modal verbs of probability followed by the continuous infinitive (be + -ing). This structure shifts the focus from a simple fact to a logical deduction or a strong expectation based on a schedule or routine.
Form
subject + should / might / may + be + verb-ing
The structure uses a modal verb followed by the base form of 'be' and the present participle of the main verb. Should expresses a strong expectation based on logic, while might or may express a lower degree of certainty.
Degrees of Certainty
Use should be -ing when you expect something to happen because it is planned or normal. Use might/may be -ing when you are guessing about a current or future situation.
| Modal Verb | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| should be -ing | Strong expectation; based on a plan or logic. | They should be arriving soon. |
| may be -ing | Factual possibility; moderate certainty. | She may be working late tonight. |
| might be -ing | Remote possibility; lower certainty. | It might be raining in London now. |
Examples
Common mistakes
They should being working now.
They should be working now.
Modal verbs must be followed by the bare infinitive 'be', not the participle 'being'.
He might is sleeping.
He might be sleeping.
Do not use conjugated forms of 'to be' (am/is/are) after a modal verb.
Practice
The parcel was sent first class yesterday, so it ___ (arrive) at his house today.
Show answer
should be arriving
Answer:should be arriving
Why:We use 'should be arriving' because there is a logical expectation based on the service used.
I'm not sure where Sarah is. She ___ (work) in the garden, or she could be at the shops.
Show answer
might be working
Answer:might be working
Why:The speaker is unsure and making a guess, so 'might be working' expresses this possibility.
By this time next week, we ___ (lie) on a beach in Spain!
Show answer
should be lying
Answer:should be lying
Why:This expresses a strong expectation of a future event based on a set plan.