Use the correct modal verb
Key Notes:
1. What Are Modal Verbs?
Modal verbs are special auxiliary verbs that are used to express ability, permission, necessity, possibility, or obligation. They add meaning to the main verb in a sentence.
2. Common Modal Verbs:
- Can / Could – Ability or possibility.
- Example: I can swim. / I could go to the party.
- May / Might – Permission or possibility.
- Example: May I use your phone? / It might rain tomorrow.
- Will / Would – Future intention or polite requests.
- Example: I will call you later. / Would you like some help?
- Shall / Should – Suggestions or advice.
- Example: Shall we go for a walk? / You should study more.
- Must – Necessity or strong obligation.
- Example: You must wear a helmet.
- Ought to – A suggestion or advice (similar to “should”).
- Example: You ought to read more books.
3. How to Use Modal Verbs:
- Modal verbs are followed by the base form of the main verb (without “to”).
- Example: She can speak three languages. (NOT: She can speaks)
- They do not change according to the subject.
- Example: I can help you. / She can help you. (Same form “can” for all subjects)
4. Examples of Using Modal Verbs:
- Can: “She can play the piano.”
- Could: “I could finish the work by tomorrow.”
- May: “You may leave early today.”
- Might: “They might come to the party.”
- Will: “I will visit my grandmother.”
- Shall: “We shall meet after school.”
- Should: “You should eat healthy food.”
- Must: “You must wear a seatbelt.”
- Ought to: “You ought to help your parents.”
5. How to Choose the Correct Modal Verb:
- Ability: Use can (present) or could (past).
- Example: I can solve this math problem.
- Permission: Use may (formal) or can (informal).
- Example: May I go to the bathroom?
- Possibility: Use might or may.
- Example: It might snow tomorrow.
- Obligation: Use must or have to.
- Example: I must finish my homework before I go out.
- Advice or Suggestion: Use should or ought to.
- Example: You should drink more water.
Let’s practice!🖊️
