Modal Verbs Overview and Usage

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

Which modal verb best completes the sentence: 'The restaurant __________ have digital menus on the tables?'

Could

Might

Must (correct)

Should

What modal verb fits this context: 'Everyone __________ brush their teeth every day.'?

Might

Can

Could

Should (correct)

Which modal verb properly completes the phrase: 'Darius, __________ I have another cookie after dinner?'

Can

Should

May (correct)

Must

The sentence 'It __________ snow in Texas if the weather keeps changing' suggests which level of certainty?

Could Signup and view all the answers

Which modal verb should be used to complete 'You __________ not text while you drive!' to express obligation?

Must Signup and view all the answers

Which modal verb indicates the strongest logical possibility?

Must Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following modals expresses the ability to do something?

Can Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct way to express permission in the most formal manner?

May I take a day off tomorrow? Signup and view all the answers

Which modal indicates a suggestion?

Should Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements uses a modal verb to predict a future event?

He will be here soon. Signup and view all the answers

What does the modal 'might' imply about an action?

A lesser degree of certainty Signup and view all the answers

In which context would 'could' be appropriately used?

To indicate a weak ability Signup and view all the answers

Which modal is often used to give advice?

Should Signup and view all the answers

What does the modal 'must' indicate in the sentence 'The kids must drink water every day'?

A strong necessity Signup and view all the answers

In the example 'You might win the lottery, but the chances are low', what does the modal 'might' suggest?

A low chance of occurrence Signup and view all the answers

What does the modal 'can' indicate in the sentence 'Alona can start a fire in five minutes'?

An ability to perform an action Signup and view all the answers

In the phrase 'May I get my grade tonight?', what does 'may' convey regarding permission?

A strong formality in the request Signup and view all the answers

What does the modal 'should' imply in 'Hyunh should get braces'?

A weak recommendation Signup and view all the answers

In the example 'Navya could run a mile in 11 minutes', what kind of modal is 'could' indicating?

An ability in a weaker form Signup and view all the answers

Which sentence demonstrates a request for permission using a modal?

Can you throw me the ball? Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following sentences indicates a logical possibility?

They might want to join us. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Modal verbs add meaning of possibility, ability, necessity, and permission to verbs.
They come before the infinitive verb (e.g., to go, to eat, to run).
They don't need to match the subject in plural agreement (e.g., "I can," "We can").
They're used to predict future possibilities, describe abilities, give advice, make requests, and ask for permission.
Common modals include: can, could, shall, should, will, would, may, might, and must.

Logical Possibility (Most Certain):
- Must: The dark clouds must mean rain today.
- Will: Due to the news, the stock will go down.
Logical Possibility (Less Certain):
- May: This change may improve the results.
- Can: Being careless can have bad consequences.
- Could: The charm could protect you.
- Might: I might be tired tomorrow.
Ability:
- Can: He can type 34 words per minute.
- Could: I could assist by interpreting the results.
- Shall: Shall we dance?
Necessity (Obligation):
- Must: They must go to work today.
- Should: You should floss every day.
Permission:
- May (Most Formal): May I turn my paper in tomorrow?
- Might: Might he have some more soup?
- Could: Can I buy the new model?
- Can (Least Formal): Can I go to my friend's house?

Logical Possibility

Modals add possibility to an action.
"Must" implies strong possibility; "could" and "might" imply uncertainty.
"Example:" The weather report showed a 99% chance of rain, so it must rain.
"Example:" You might find an open store after 12:00 AM.

Ability

Modals express a degree of ability to do an action.
"Example:" Pigeons have a special ability; they can recognize themselves in mirrors.
"Example:" The editor could edit 70 pages in two days.

Necessity

Modals suggest a recommendation for an action.
"Example:" The kids must drink water every day.
"Example:" My students should do their homework every night.

Permission

Modals are used in requests, with varying formality.
"Example:" May I go to the restroom?"
"Example:" Can you throw me the ball?"

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz explores the fundamental concepts of modal verbs, including their meanings, functions, and common examples. Test your understanding of how modal verbs influence sentences and express possibility, ability, necessity, and permission. Perfect for learners looking to grasp this crucial aspect of English grammar.