Posted by Hello everyone!
This grammar session is for those who can’t understand or still have some questions about the use of some modal verbs.
They are a type of verb that is used to indicate modality – that is, probability, ability, permission, suggestion and obligation.
Here is a list of all the modal verbs, including their use and some examples.
| Modal | Example | Uses |
| Can | They can control their own budgets.
We can’t fix it. Can I smoke here? Can you help me? |
Ability / Possibility
Inability / Impossibility Asking for permission Request |
| Could | Could I borrow your dictionary?
Could you say it again more slowly? We could try to fix it ourselves. I think we could have another Gulf War. He gave up his old job so he could work for us. |
Asking for permission.
Request Suggestion Future possibility Ability in the past |
| May | May I have another cup of coffee?
China may become a major economic power. |
Asking for permission
Future possibility |
| Might | We’d better phone tomorrow, they might be eating their dinner now.
They might give us a 10% discount. |
Present possibility
Future possibility |
| Must | We must say good-bye now.
They mustn’t disrupt the work more than necessary. |
Necessity / Obligation
Prohibition |
| Ought to | We ought to employ a professional writer. | Saying what’s right or correct |
| Shall
(More common in the UK than the US) |
Shall I help you with your luggage?
Shall we say 2.30 then? Shall I do that or will you? |
Offer
Suggestion Asking what to do |
| Should | We should sort out this problem at once.
I think we should check everything again. Profits should increase next year. |
Saying what’s right or correct
Recommending action Uncertain prediction |
| Will | I can’t see any taxis so I’ll walk.
I’ll do that for you if you like. I’ll get back to you first thing on Monday. Profits will increase next year. |
Instant decisions
Offer Promise Certain prediction |
| Would | Would you mind if I brought a colleague with me?
Would you pass the salt please? Would you mind waiting a moment? “Would three o`clock suit you?” – “That’d be fine.” Would you like to play golf this Friday? “Would you prefer tea or coffee?” – “I’d like tea please.” |
Asking for permission
Request Request Making arrangements Invitation Preferences |
Some exercises to practice:
http://www.englishpage.com/modals/modalintro.html
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