Modal verbs

Modal Verbs

Laura Henriques

What are modal verbs?

• Possibility, intent, ability, or necessity.
• Auxiliary verb - used together with the main verb of the sentence to slightly change its meaning.

Can/Cannot/can't Could/Couldn't

• Ability or lack of in the past

She could sing well as a child.

• Polite requests

Could you repeat that please?

• Ability or lack of

I can run fast.

• Informal requests

Can I come with you?

• Asking, giving and refusing permission

Can I go to the bathroom? No, you can't./Yes, you can.

May/May not Might/Might not

• Possible future actions, with slight doubt

I might call him after this, but i probably won't.

• Possible future actions

I may be late to class.

• Formal permissions

May i borrow this? No, you may not./Yes, you may.

Would/Wouldn't Should/Shouldn't

• Giving an opinion or an advice

You should study more if you want good grades.

• Polite requests

Would you pour me a glass, please?

• Polite offers

Would you like some help?

• Polite invitations

Would you come with me to dinner?

• Unreal/imagined actions or situations

I would never do that! I wouldn't want to be near him.