verb
shall
shal
verb
1
Used before a verb, traditionally with "I" or "we", to express simple future tense.
"I shall return by evening."
2
Used to express strong intention, obligation, or a promise.
"You shall not pass this point without a permit."
3
Used in questions offering to do something or suggesting an action.
"Shall we go for a walk?"
How to Use Shall
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA more formal or old-fashioned way of expressing the future or a firm intention, mostly used with "I" and "we".
When to use it
In modern everyday English, "will" has mostly replaced "shall" except in formal, legal, or British usage.
Common pairings
shall we
I shall
you shall not
Word Forms
should past tense, shall singular
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I _____ return by evening.
Etymology
From Old English sceal, related to a Proto-Germanic root meaning "to owe" or "to be obliged".