Modal Verbs Similar Verb Uses Examples

in Spanish
Can Poder Ability/ possibility I can speak english
Inabiliy/ impossibility I can not speak english
Request Can i go to the bathtoom?

Could Pudieras Possiblity Could i go to the bathroom?

Request Could you lend me your pen?
Abilty in the past You could cut yout hair

May Tal vez Asking for permission (polite) May i go to the batrhoom
It may rain tomorrow

Might Quizas Possibility It might rain tomorrow

Should Deber Saying whats right or correct You should eat fruit everyday
You should cut your hair

Ought to Deber Recommending action/ advice You should eat fruit everyday
You should cut your hair

Must Deber Necessity/ obligation You must come to class on time

Strong advice You must cuty your hair

Shall (formal) Debera Offer I shall go to the store for you

Promise/ intended action I shall study more

Will Sera Promise/ intended action I will go to the store for you
Instant decisions I will study more
Its could in here, i will close the door

Would Haria Request (polite) Would you lend me your pen?

Invitation Would you like to come with me?
Preferences Would you like tea or coffee