Subjective use of modal verbs
B2 · Upper-Intermediate · Style & Precision
The rule
Er soll reich sein = He is said to be rich; Er muss krank sein = He must be ill.
How it works
Modal verbs can express the speaker's assessment. Sollen signals reported information ("He is said to be rich"), müssen signals a logical conclusion ("He must be ill"), können signals possibility ("It could be true"), and dürfte signals probability ("He will probably be home"). Context and intonation help decide the meaning.
When to use it
Express how sure you are or what you have been told using modal verbs: Er soll reich sein (He is said to be rich), Er muss krank sein (He must be ill).
Use cases
- Reporting a rumour: Er soll sehr reich sein
- Stating a logical conclusion: Sie muss krank sein, sie kommt nicht
- Expressing uncertainty: Das kann stimmen
Examples
- Sie dürfte zu Hause sein – She is probably at home
- Das dürfte schwierig werden. – That will probably be difficult.
- Die Nachbarn sollen umziehen. – The neighbours are supposed to be moving out.
- Das kann nicht wahr sein! – That cannot be true!
Common mistake
Using the objective meaning (obligation) when the subjective (deduction or hearsay) is intended.
Memory tip
Soll = reported by others, muss = logical conclusion.