* Modal Auxiliary Verbs: These verbs (like "may," "can," "will," "should," etc.) are used to express possibility, permission, obligation, etc. They are always followed by another verb.
* Linking Verbs: These verbs connect a subject to a predicate nominative (a noun or pronoun that renames the subject) or a predicate adjective (an adjective that describes the subject). Common linking verbs are "be," "become," "seem," "appear," "feel," etc.
In the phrase "may be," the verb "be" is the linking verb, while "may" is the modal auxiliary.
Example:
* "She may be tired." Here, "may be" acts as a unit, indicating possibility. "Be" is the linking verb connecting "she" to the predicate adjective "tired."
Let me know if you have any other questions about linking verbs or modal auxiliaries!