Modal Verbs
Modal Verbs
Modal verbs: Can, Could, May, Might, Must, Shall, Should, Will, Would.
They are used to express ability, obligation, permission, assumptions, probability and
possibility, requests and offers, and advice.
Can I sit here? You can use my car if you like. Can I make a suggestion?
Can is the same for all subjects. We don't add an 'S' in the third person.
I can speak Spanish.
He can swim well.
We can see our neighbour in the garden.
They can play the guitar.
❖ That couldn't be my cat meowing outside, it was hit by a car last week.
❖ He couldn't have painted that. He has no artistic ability at all.
Obligation
Have to and must to express obligation. There is a slight difference between the
way we use them.
Speaker decides that something is necessary, Somebody else other than the speaker has made the
or needs to be done. decision.
❖ I must book a hotel for my trip next week.
We have to wear a uniform at work.
When we mention someone else’s obligation, then we use the correct conjugation of
Have to.
Note: You may still hear MUST used in questions, though mainly in British English.
● Must you leave right now? Do you have to leave right now?
Have to: Used in conversation.
● Does your tooth still hurt? You should make an appointment with the
dentist.
● I think you should study for the test so that you don't fail.
● Your hair is too long. You should get a haircut.
● You really should go to the new restaurant on Main Street.
2. Expresses that a situation is likely in the present
● They should win the game because they are a much better
team.
● I posted the cheque yesterday so it should arrive this week.
● It should be fine tomorrow.
● On hearing the fire alarm, hotel guests should leave their room
immediately.
● Passengers should check in at least 2 hours before departure time.
● You should never lie to your doctor.
● You should be at work before 9.
Shouldn't.
We use shouldn't to advise not to do something.