Shall

Definition

Shall is a modal verb. It is used to express future intention, obligation, or determination, often in formal or legal contexts.

Parts of Speech

• Modal Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʃæl/, /ʃəl/
• Respelling: SHAL, shuhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʃæl/, /ʃəl/
• Respelling: SHAL, shuhl

Etymology

The word "shall" originates from Old English "sceal," meaning "must" or "ought to." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*skal," signifying obligation or necessity, and is related to similar words in Old Saxon and Old High German.

Derivatives

• Shan’t (contraction of shall not)
• Shallower (archaic adjective)
• Shallness (noun, rare)
• Shallingly (adverb, rare)
• Shalling (present participle, rare)

Synonyms

• Will
• Must
• Should

Antonyms

• Won’t
• Can’t
• None

Usage

The term "shall" is commonly used in formal, legal, and contractual language. Examples include "You shall receive your payment tomorrow" and "The terms shall be enforced as stated."

Related Terms

• Will: A modal verb expressing future intent or desire.
• Should: A modal verb used to express obligation or advisability.
• Must: A modal verb indicating necessity or requirement.

Detailed Definitions

Modal Verb

• To express future intention or determination: Refers to a commitment to a course of action.
  • Example: "I shall complete the project by next week."
• To indicate obligation or command: Often used in legal or formal contexts to convey a directive.
  • Example: "The tenant shall pay the rent on the first of each month."
• To ask for advice or suggestions (archaic): Used in interrogative sentences to seek guidance.
  • Example: "Shall we go to the park?"