Modal verbs
In a nutshell
Modal verbs are helping verbs used to give additional or specific meaning to the main verb in a sentence. Modal verbs can express possibility, ability, certainty and more. In this summary, you'll learn the meanings of several modal verbs and how to use them in a sentence.
Use of modal verbs
Modal verbs are very common, they always appear paired with another verb which they modify the meaning of. In these examples the modal verbs are in bold and the main verbs are underlined.
Examples
I might go to the museum with my friends.
He will be tired this morning.
They can see the finish line from here.
Types of modal verbs
There are many different modal verbs which can all change the meaning of other verbs in different ways.
Possibility
Modal verbs like might, may and could are used to indicate possibility. They suggest that something is possible but not certain right now.
Examples
Our team could win this game after all.
Millie might come over this evening.
They may be hungry when they get home.
Ability
Modal verbs such as can and could are used to show ability, whether someone or something is capable of doing something.
Examples
My grandmother could cook very well.
Platypuses can stay underwater for up to ten minutes.
Permission
May, can and could can also be used to express or to ask for permission to do something.
Examples
Mr Frost can do that, it's his office.
May I go to the toilet please?
Can you come over next Thursday?
Certainty
Must is a modal verb used to talk about something certain or definite. It can also be used in a similar way as should to show an obligation, something which has to be done.
Examples
They left ages ago, they must have arrived by now.
You must be exhausted, you barely slept last night.
You should wear your seatbelt when you're in a car.
The future
Will and shall are modal verbs used to talk about future plans and possibilities.
Examples
They will see each other next week.
I shall pick him up later.
Dan will play in the game on Saturday.
