Modal Verb

Uses

Example

Can

Ability / Possibility
Inability / Impossibility
Asking for permission
Requests
Asking for permission.
Requests
Suggestions
Future possibility
Ability in the past
Asking for permission (polite)
Future possibility
Future possibility
Necessity
Obligation
Prohibition
Saying whats right or correct
Future probability (quite certain)
Offers
Suggestions
Asking what to do
Saying whats right or correct
Recommending action
Predictions
Instant decisions
Promises
Asking for permission
Making a request
Invitation
Stating or asking preferences
Making arrangements

They can control their own budgets.

Im sorry. We cant fix it.
Can I smoke here?
Can you help me?
Could I borrow your dictionary?
Could you say it again more slowly?
We could try to fix it ourselves.
I think we could have another war.
He gave up his old job so he could work for us.
May I have another cup of coffee?
China may become a major economic power.
They might give us a 10% discount.
We must say good-bye now.
You must pay me back by next week.
They mustnt disrupt the work more than necessary.
We ought to employ a professional translator.
The football match ought to start on time.
Shall I help you with your luggage?
Shall we say 2.30 then?
Shall I do that or will you?
We should sort out this problem at once.
I think we should check everything again.
Profits will increase next year.
I cant see any taxis so Ill walk.
Ill get back to you first thing on Monday.
Would you mind if I brought a colleague with me?
Would you pass the salt please?
Would you mind waiting a moment?
"Would you prefer tea or coffee?" - "Id like tea please."
"Would three oclock suit you?

Could

May
Might
Must
Ought to
Shall
Should
Will
Would