What does the modal verb show?

Key Notes:

Definition of Modal Verbs:

  • Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs used to express ability, possibility, permission, or obligation.

Common Modal Verbs:

Can: Indicates ability or possibility.

  • Example: “She can swim very fast.” (ability)

Could: Indicates past ability or polite requests.

  • Example: “Could you help me with this?” (request)

May: Indicates permission or possibility.

  • Example: “May I go to the bathroom?” (permission)

Might: Indicates a small chance of something happening.

  • Example: “It might rain later.” (possibility)

Must: Indicates necessity or strong obligation.

  • Example: “You must wear a seatbelt.” (obligation)

Should: Indicates advice or a suggestion.

  • Example: “You should eat more vegetables.” (advice)

Would: Indicates a polite request or a hypothetical situation.

  • Example: “Would you like some tea?” (polite offer)

Usage of Modal Verbs:

Ability: Shows what someone can or cannot do.

  • Example: “He can play the guitar.” (ability)

Permission: Shows if something is allowed or not.

  • Example: “You may leave early today.” (permission)

Possibility: Shows if something might happen.

  • Example: “She might join us later.” (possibility)

Obligation: Shows if something must be done.

  • Example: “You must finish your homework.” (obligation)

Advice: Shows suggestions or recommendations.

  • Example: “You should study for the test.” (advice)

Polite Requests/Offers: Shows politeness in requests or offers.

  • Example: “Would you pass the salt, please?” (request)

Examples in Sentences:

  • Can: “I can ride a bike.”
  • Could: “He could play the piano when he was younger.”
  • May: “May I use your phone?”
  • Might: “They might go to the park if it’s sunny.”
  • Must: “You must wear a helmet while biking.”
  • Should: “She should see a doctor if she’s feeling sick.”
  • Would: “I would help if I could.”

Forming Questions and Negatives:

Questions: Place the modal verb before the subject.

  • Example: “Can you help me?”

Negatives: Add “not” after the modal verb.

  • Example: “She cannot (can’t) drive a car.”

Let’s practice!🖊️