Modal verbs

Front

What are modal verbs?

Back

Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express necessity, possibility, permission, or ability. Examples include can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, and would.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What does 'can' express?

Back

'Can' expresses ability or possibility. For example, 'I can swim' means I have the ability to swim.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What does 'can't' indicate?

Back

'Can't' indicates impossibility or denial. For example, 'It can't be Susie' means it is impossible for her to be at the door.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What does 'must' imply?

Back

'Must' implies a strong necessity or certainty. For example, 'You must finish your homework' means it is necessary to finish it.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What does 'might' suggest?

Back

'Might' suggests a possibility. For example, 'It might rain tomorrow' means there is a chance of rain.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What does 'should' indicate?

Back

'Should' indicates a recommendation or advice. For example, 'You should eat healthy food' means it is advisable to eat healthy.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What does 'could' express?

Back

'Could' expresses a past ability or a possibility. For example, 'I could play the piano when I was younger' means I had the ability in the past.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What is the difference between 'may' and 'might'?

Back

'May' is used for a higher possibility, while 'might' is used for a lower possibility. For example, 'It may rain' (more likely) vs. 'It might rain' (less likely).

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What does 'ought to' mean?

Back

'Ought to' indicates a moral obligation or duty. For example, 'You ought to help your friends' means it is the right thing to do.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

How do you use 'mustn't'?

Back

'Mustn't' indicates prohibition. For example, 'You mustn't talk during the movie' means it is not allowed to talk.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B