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Modal Verbs Usage and Examples

The document outlines the use of modal verbs in English, categorizing them into ability, permission, advice, possibility, deduction, obligation, lack of obligation, and prohibition. Examples illustrate how each modal verb functions in different contexts, such as expressing ability with 'can' and 'could,' making requests with 'may' and 'would,' and indicating obligation with 'must' and 'have to.' Overall, it serves as a guide to understanding the nuances of modal verbs in various situations.

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30 views2 pages

Modal Verbs Usage and Examples

The document outlines the use of modal verbs in English, categorizing them into ability, permission, advice, possibility, deduction, obligation, lack of obligation, and prohibition. Examples illustrate how each modal verb functions in different contexts, such as expressing ability with 'can' and 'could,' making requests with 'may' and 'would,' and indicating obligation with 'must' and 'have to.' Overall, it serves as a guide to understanding the nuances of modal verbs in various situations.

Uploaded by

portobellow11
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

CAN (present) I can speak 3 languages.

ABILITY
COULD (past) When I was 5, I couldn’t swim.

BE ABLE TO (other tenses) When I am 20, I will be able to drive

PERMISSION CAN (informal) Could I use the computer, please?


REQUEST
COULD (polite) Can you give me a lift to the station?

WILL (neutral) WOULD Could you pass me the salt, please?


(polite)
May I have your attention?
MAY (formal)

ADVICE SHOULD You look tired, you should have a holiday.

OUGHT TO (formal) What do you think I should do?

POSSIBILITY MAY, MIGHT (weaker possibility) It may rain later, it’s getting cloudy.
DEDUCTION
MUST (sure) - The phone is ringing. It must be Mary,
she said she would call at 5.
CAN’T (impossible) - It can’t be her. She’s left her phone
here!

OBLIGATION MUST (present, sense of You must be on time for the lessons
duty)
I had to get up early for the trip on Sunday
HAVE TO (external authority,
other tenses) Did you have to work yesterday?

LACK OF OBLIGATION DON’T HAVE TO On Sat you don’t have to get up early

NEEDN’T You needn’t take an umbrella; it is not raining

MUSTN’T (sense of duty) You mustn’t drink beer; you are too young.
PROHIBITION
CAN’T (external authority) You can’t take photos in this museum.
MODAL VERBS

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