Modal Verbs

Modal Verbs

Asking , giving or refusing permission

Asking for permission

We use can to ask for permission to do something in informal contexts:

-Can I open the window, please?

-Yes, you can! go ahead!

-Mom, can we go to McDonald's this weekend?

-No, we can't we are going to your uncle's house

could is a more formal and polite way to ask for permission

Excuse me, could I close the window?

Could you tell me what time is it?

may is the most formal and polite way of asking for permission:

-May I borrow your pen?

-Yes, you may. Here it is!

Fill in the Blank

Mom: _____ you do the washing-up, please?

Fill in the Blank

Son: I'm sorry, I _____________. I have to do my homework.

Fill in the Blank

Mom: Oh. Well, go and start your homework now.

Son: Mom ... ________ I go to the cinema with Tom later?

Fill in the Blank

Mom: Sorry, you ____________. You have to do your homework!

Son: But I haven't got much homework to do.

Fill in the Blank

Mom: First do the washing-up and your homework!

Son: Of course! But after that?

Mom: Mmm ... OK. Yes, you _______.

Son: Thanks, Mom.