MODAL VERBS

Front

She might have been feeling ill.

Back

It’s possible that she was feeling ill.

Answer explanation

This sentences is describing a speculation in the past.

Front

You must be tired after all that work.

Back

I’m sure you are tired.

Answer explanation

This is a speculation in present.

Front

George could have gone home early.

Back

It’s possible that he went home early.

Answer explanation

This is a speculation in the past, not the future.

Front

You should have been more careful.

Back

You weren’t careful enough.

Answer explanation

This is expressing a regret from the past.

Front

You could make more effort to help.

Back

You don’t do enough to help.

Answer explanation

This is describing a situation in the present.

could + infinivite verb= modals in present.

Front

It can’t have been much fun!

Back

I'm sure you didn’t enjoy it!

Answer explanation

This is a negative speculation about something in the past.

Front

Tell us about your regrets or mistakes you’ve made. I once saw a guy fall off his bike in the street. I was in a hurry, so I just carried on. I ______ ____ ____ (should/do) something to help him.

Back

should have done

Answer explanation

This sentence expresses a regret from the past.

should + have + past participle

Front

My tablet went missing from my bedroom a couple of weeks ago. I thought someone ____ ____ ______ (must/steal) it, so I called the police.

Back

must have stolen

Answer explanation

This person is basically 100% certain of their theory.

Front

I _______ ____ _______ (need/worry). My brother had borrowed my phone. I thought I had lost it.

Back

needn't have worried

Answer explanation

This sentence expressions something that wasn't necessary in the past.

Front

I once missed an exam because I overslept. I ____ ____ ____ ________ (must/sleep) very deeply because I didn’t hear my alarm go off.

Back

must have been sleeping

Answer explanation

This is a speculation about an ongoing action in the past.