# shall

/ˈʃæɫ/ (US) · /ʃˈæl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/shall
Updated: 2026-08-01

## Senses

### 1. making a suggestion

modal verb · CEFR A2

you use this in questions to suggest an idea or ask for advice.

For teachers: used in interrogative sentences with the first person to offer a suggestion or request instructions.

- Shall we go for a walk after we finish our coffee?
- Shall I contact the supplier directly, or would you prefer to handle the initial negotiations yourself?

Usage: Only used with 'I' or 'we' in this sense.

### 2. future plans

modal verb · CEFR B1 · Formal · British English

a formal way to say 'will' when talking about the future.

For teachers: used as a future marker, traditionally restricted to the first person singular and plural in formal registers.

- I shall be away on holiday for the next two weeks.
- We shall eventually reach a decision, though the complexity of the legal framework requires a more thorough review than initially anticipated.

Teaching tip: In modern speech, 'will' is much more common; 'shall' can sound very formal or old-fashioned to some speakers.

### 3. rules and laws

modal verb · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

used in formal rules to say that something must happen.

For teachers: used in legal or administrative contexts to express a mandatory requirement or obligation.

- The tenant shall pay the rent on the first day of every month.
- The party of the second part shall ensure that all safety protocols are strictly observed for the duration of the contract.

Usage: Used with second and third person subjects in legal documents.

## Examples

- Shall we go for a walk?
- I shall be happy to assist you with your luggage once we reach the hotel lobby.
- The contract stipulates that the tenant shall maintain the property in good repair throughout the duration of the lease, failing which the agreement may be terminated.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.