Modal verb Usage Example
I can do several things at
ability the same time.
can when something is Miracles can happen.
possible
permission You can go now.
informal request Can you come here for a
minute?
She said she could pay for
past form of “can” us
could as well.
polite requests Could you move your bag,
please?
possibility It could be that he missed
the train.
ask for or give May I speak?
may permission (formal)
possibility It may rain tomorrow.
past form of “may” He said he might change his
might mind.
possibility This might fail.
you have to do it You must obey the law.
must it’s very logical or very They left so early, they must
likely to happen be home by now.
must not / you are not You mustn’t smoke in here.
mustn’t allowed to do it.
future for “I” and “we” I shall see him tomorrow.
shall questions and Let’s continue, shall we?
suggestions for “I” and
“we”
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the right thing to do She could call the police.
advice What should I do?
should You should stop thinking
about it.
what is likely or We should be back by
expected to happen midnight.
future action or states Prices will go up next
will (not plans) summer.
promises and intentions It’s all right, I’ll pick it up.
past form of “will” He told me he would come.
imagined situation What would you do if you
were him?
for polite requests, Would you please sit down?
would offers and invitations Would you like some tea?
We are meeting Tom next
Friday, would you like to
come along?
to say what you want to I would like a piece of cake.
do or have
ought to the right thing to do You ought to apologize.
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