Guessing
There are a number of ways to guess in English. Here are some of the most common:
- I'd say he's about ready to quite his job.
- It might need some oil.
- He could be in the garden.
- It looks like a miniature motor.
- Perhaps he needs some time off work.
- Maybe they want to come and visit this summer.
- It's difficult to say, but I'd guess that it's used for cleaning house.
- I'm not really sure, but I think they enjoy hiking in the mountains.
After you study these constructions, take the guessing quiz to check your understanding.
| Formula | Form |
|
I'd say he's about ready to quite his job. |
Use 'I'd say' an independent clause. |
|
It might need some oil. |
Use 'might' the base form of the verb. |
|
He could be in the garden. |
Use 'could' the base form of the verb. |
|
It looks like a miniature motor. |
Use the verb 'look like' a noun. |
|
Perhaps he needs some time off work. |
Begin the sentence with 'perhaps'. |
|
Maybe they want to come and visit this summer. |
Begin the sentence with 'maybe'. |
|
It's difficult to say, but I'd guess that it's used for cleaning house. |
Use the phrase 'It's difficult to say, but I'd guess' an independent clause. |
|
I'm not really sure, but I think they enjoy hiking in the mountains. |
Use the phrase 'I'm not really sure, but I think' an independent clause. |
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