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.

Front

What is the function of 'must' in a sentence?

Back

'Must' is used to express obligation or necessity. For example, 'You must finish your homework before going out.'

Front

What does 'mustn't' indicate?

Back

'Mustn't' indicates prohibition. It means that something is not allowed. For example, 'You mustn't smoke in the hospital.'

Front

How is 'can' used in a sentence?

Back

'Can' is used to express ability or possibility. For example, 'I can swim.'

Front

What is the difference between 'can' and 'could'?

Back

'Can' is used for present ability, while 'could' is used for past ability or polite requests. For example, 'I can play the piano' (present) vs. 'I could play the piano when I was younger' (past).

Front

What does 'should' express?

Back

'Should' is used to give advice or recommendations. For example, 'You should see a doctor if you're feeling unwell.'

Front

What is the meaning of 'had better'?

Back

'Had better' is used to give strong advice or warnings. For example, 'You had better leave now if you want to catch the bus.'

Front

What does 'may' indicate?

Back

'May' is used to express permission or possibility. For example, 'You may leave the room.'

Front

What is the use of 'might'?

Back

'Might' is used to express a lower possibility than 'may'. For example, 'It might rain tomorrow.'

Front

What does 'could' imply in terms of ability?

Back

'Could' implies a past ability or a possibility. For example, 'I could run fast when I was younger.'