MODALS

What are
modals?
Modals are auxiliary
verbs that are used with
another verb to express an
idea such as possibility,
willingness, obligation,
ability, etc.
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Modals are of different kinds:
Modal Use Examples
can • implies the 1. The child can
ability to do play the violin.
something
2. Can I take a
• asking/giving picture with
permission you?

3
Modal Use Examples
could • implies possibility 1. It could rain
tonight.

• making requests 2. Could you mail the

letter please?

• express unreal 3. If I had the money, I

condition could buy that car.

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Modal Use Examples
may • asking/giving 1. May I go out?
permission 2. May you have a
• expresses wish safe flight!
• expresses 3. He may come,
doubt/guess although I don’t
• expresses think he will.
possibility 4. The patient may
walk again soon.

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Modal Use Examples
might • expresses She might come
guess/conjecture early.
should • expresses Children should be
obligation, duty polite.
would • express polite Would you turn on
request the television?
• express unreal If I were the judge, I
condition would convict them.

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� Choose the correct modal that is
appropriate in the sentence.

�
1. She looks pretty sick, she ______ (can, should)
see the doctor.
2. You’ve been driving all day, you _____ (should,
must) be exhausted!
3. I think I’m lost! ____ (Can, Should) you help me?
4. Sarah won the lottery, she _____ (may, should)
lend you some money.
5. _____ (Could, Would) you drive carefully tonight? 7