Fill in the blank with the most appropriate option that indicates the bracketed concept the story be true? (possibility)

Appeared in: Raj. CHO -2025

Explanation

The modal verb 'Can' is used to express possibility or to question if something is possible.
In the sentence 'Can the story be true?', the speaker is asking if it is possible for the story to be true.
This directly aligns with the requirement in the parenthesis to indicate 'possibility'.

Option A: 'Will' expresses future certainty or prediction, not present possibility.
Option C: 'Shall' is primarily used for formal suggestions, offers, or obligations, especially with 'I' and 'we'. It is not used to question possibility in this context in modern English.
Option D: This is a Hindi phrase meaning 'Unanswered Question'. It is not an English word or a modal verb.

Visual 1: Chart - A chart comparing the primary functions of common modal verbs (Can, Could, May, Might, Will, Would, Shall, Should, Must) with example sentences for each function (possibility, ability, permission, obligation, etc.).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Usage of Modal Verbs for Possibility as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While this is a grammar question, clear communication is essential in all professions, including nursing. Using the correct modal verb ensures that requests, suggestions, and statements of possibility are understood correctly by patients and colleagues.
For example, telling a patient 'You can take this medication with food' (it is possible/allowed) has a different meaning from 'You must take this medication with food' (it is an obligation).
What if? If the question asked to express a more formal or slightly less certain possibility, 'May' could also be a correct answer (e.g., 'May the story be true?'). However, 'Can' is the most common choice for general possibility.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core task from the prompt: fill in the blank with a word that indicates 'possibility'.
Analyze the sentence structure: '___ the story be true?'. This is a question about the story's truthfulness.
Evaluate each option based on its grammatical function and meaning.
Recall or determine the primary uses of each modal verb: 'Will' for certainty/future, 'Can' for possibility/ability, and 'Shall' for formal suggestions/obligations.
Match the required meaning ('possibility') with the correct modal verb ('Can').
Eliminate the options that do not fit, including the non-English option.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full Raj. CHO -2025

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.