Mastering modal verbs is essential for speaking and writing English with confidence. These special verbs—such as can, must, may, and should—help express ability, necessity, permission, and possibility. In this post, you’ll learn how to use modal verbs correctly, understand their meanings, and see examples to make learning easier.
Mastering Modal Verbs
Type | Modal Verb | Example |
Ability | can | She can swim very well. |
Possibility | might | It might rain tomorrow. |
Permission | may | May I leave the room? |
Obligation | must | You must wear a seatbelt. |
Prohibition | must not | You must not smoke here. |
Advice | should | You should see a doctor. |
Lack of necessity | don’t have to | You don’t have to come if you’re busy. |
Willingness | will | I will help you with your homework. |
Expectation | should | The train should arrive soon. |
Possibility (Past) | could | She could have been at the party. |
Suggestion | shall | Shall we go for a walk? |
Hypothetical | would | If I were you, I would apologize. |
Mastering Modal Verbs
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