Grammar: core modal verbs

Vocabulary in this set

Use ten modal verbs to express ability, possibility, permission, advice, and obligation.

1. can

   Word

   express ability or possibility

   I can swim.

2. could

   Word

   polite requests or express possibility/ability in the past

   Could you please pass the salt?

3. will

   Word

   express future intentions or predictions

   I will call you later.

4. would

   Word

   polite requests, offering, or expressing preference

   Would you like some tea?

5. shall

   Word

   formal or old-fashioned, indicate a future action or make a suggestion

   Shall we go for a walk?

6. should

   Word

   express advice, recommendation, or obligation

   You should finish your homework before watching TV.

7. must

   Word

   indicate necessity or a strong obligation

   You must submit the report by Friday.

8. may

   Word

   express permission or possibility

   May I use your phone?

9. might

   Word

   indicate a possibility, often in a more uncertain or tentative manner than 'may'

   It might rain later.

10. ought to

    Phrase

    express a moral or social obligation, similar to 'should'

    You ought to apologize for your mistake.