Fill in the blank with the correct modal.
Tragedies ________ an episode of depression.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → may trigger
Complete sentence: Tragedies may trigger an episode of depression. To trigger means to cause something to start. A sad event can lead to depression in some people, but it does not happen to everyone.
| Option | Meaning and use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) ought to have triggered | “Ought to have + past participle (V3)” talks about a past action that was expected but did not happen. The sentence states a general truth, not a past event. | You ought to have told me about the test yesterday. |
| (2) should trigger | duty or advice. It would mean that depression ought to happen. That makes no sense. | Students should reach the hall before nine. |
| (3) may trigger (answer) | possibility: something is possible but not sure | Loud music late at night may disturb the neighbours. |
| (4) must trigger | certainty or need. It says every tragedy leads to depression, and that is not true. | You must wear a helmet on a bike. |