modals.pdf

Modals Modals are a kind of helping verb that adds meaning to the verb. Modals don’t typically change forms, but they can change the form of the rest of the verb. They are used with another, main verb. Most modals can also begin a question. Below are some common uses of modals. Modal Meaning Example...

Modals Modals are a kind of helping verb that adds meaning to the verb. Modals don’t typically change forms, but they can change the form of the rest of the verb. They are used with another, main verb. Most modals can also begin a question. Below are some common uses of modals. Modal Meaning Example can to be able to Can you jump over that stream? I can eat a whole pizza. to ask/give permission Can I leave now? You can go to the movies tomorrow. past version of can / to be possible Could it have been a blue car? She could be older than I thought past version of can / to ask/give permission Could I borrow your phone? have to to be necessary Do you have to go tomorrow? I have to leave now. may to be possible She may be lying. to ask permission Yes, you may leave early. May I go to the store? might past version of may / to possibly be true She might be late. He might be leaving soon. must to be necessary Must you go now? She must go to the conference. to be certainly true / to believe strongly It must be almost noon. There must be a mistake. to be certainly true She shall pass the test. to offer Shall I get you some coffee? to be suggested She should study tonight. Should I go to the party? to be likely I should have enough money. to request or offer Would you like some tea? to be true in the future She would enjoy that trip. used with “if” If he were taller, he would be your twin. could shall should would