Shall: meaning, definitions and examples

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shall

 

[ ʃæl ]

Modal verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Modal verb

formal

Expressing a strong assertion or intention.

Synonyms

will.

Examples of usage

  • I shall return the book to the library tomorrow.
  • I shall not tolerate such behavior in my classroom.
Context #2 | Modal verb

informal

Expressing a suggestion or an offer.

Synonyms

can, should.

Examples of usage

  • Shall we go to the movies tonight?
  • Shall I help you with your homework?

Translations

Translations of the word "shall" in other languages:

🇵🇹 deverá

🇮🇳 चाहिए

🇩🇪 soll

🇮🇩 akan

🇺🇦 повинен

🇵🇱 powinien

🇯🇵 べき

🇫🇷 devrait

🇪🇸 deberá

🇹🇷 olmalı

🇰🇷 해야 한다

🇸🇦 يجب

🇨🇿 by měl

🇸🇰 by mal

🇨🇳 应该

🇸🇮 mora

🇮🇸 skal

🇰🇿 керек

🇬🇪 უნდა

🇦🇿 olmalı

🇲🇽 deberá

Etymology

The word 'shall' originated from Old English 'sceal,' which meant 'to owe, be obliged.' Over time, its meaning evolved to indicate intention or obligation. 'Shall' has been used in English language for centuries and is commonly found in formal and legal contexts.

See also: shallow.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #53, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.