5 Questions
What are some modal verbs used to talk about permission and obligation?
can, could, must, mustn't, have to, don't have to
Which modal verb is more formal and polite than can?
could
What is the most formal way to ask for and give permission?
may
What modal verbs are used to show that something is prohibited?
can't, mustn't
When do we use can't to talk about something?
When it is against the rules, particularly when we didn't make the rules.
Study Notes
Modal Verbs for Permission and Obligation
- May, can, and could are used to talk about permission, while must, have to, and need to are used to talk about obligation.
Formality and Politeness
- May is more formal and polite than can when asking for permission or giving permission.
Formal Permission and Requests
- The most formal way to ask for and give permission is using the phrase "Do you have permission to..." or "You have permission to...".
Prohibition
- Modal verbs like can't, mustn't, and aren't allowed to are used to show that something is prohibited.
Negation and Ability
- Can't is used to talk about something that is not possible or ability in a specific situation, rather than a general ability.
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