Question

Choose the most suitable modal verb for the given sentence:
You ___ not speak a word about what you saw, or else you know what I'm capable of.

• A. Must
• B. Ought
• C. Dare
• D. Need

Answer 1

The correct option is C Dare

Modal verbs help determine the mood of a sentence, to indicate obligation, permission, possibility and so on. Semi/quasi modals are generally modal phrases performing the same function as modals, they form phrases with 'to', like ought to, need to, used to and so on. 'Dare' as a modal verb means 'be bold enough to', it's commonly used in interrogative and negative sentences. When placed in the given sentence it seems relevant as the speaker threatens the listener, hence option C is correct. 'Must' indicates an obligation, but it isn't relevant to the context of the sentence. 'Ought' indicates duty and 'need' indicates necessity. The sentence implies none of these moods, it simply implies a threat, hence options A, B and D are incorrect.