modals

modals

can is used to show:

• ability (=ικανότητα): I can swim. (Past simple: could Future Simple: I will be able to)

• asking for/giving permission (=ζητώ/δίνω την άδεια για κάτι): Can I go out? Yes, you can.

• possibility (=πιθανότητα). The job of the lifeguard can be dangerous.

may is used to show:

• asking for /giving permission (formal=επίσημο): May I go out? Yes, you may.

• possibility: It may rain tomorrow. (Πιθανόν να βρέξει αύριο)

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must is used to show

• obligation(=υποχρέωση) Ι must study hard for the test. We mustn't hit people.

• strong probability (μεγάλη πιθανότητα). The lights are on. He must be in the house. (Τα φώτα είναι αναμμένα. Είναι σίγουρα στο σπίτι)

• Be careful! The lights are off. He can't be in the house. (Όταν θέλουμε να πούμε ότι κάτι σίγουρα δεν συμβαίνει, χρησιμοποιούμε can't)

should is used to show

• advice(=συμβουλή). If you feel ill, you should visit the doctor. You shouldn't eat too many sweets.

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have to is used to show obligation(=υποχρέωση, που μας επιβάλλει κάποιος άλλος)

• Ι have to finish my homework (because my mum says so!) Do I have to visit your friend? (Είναι απαραίτητο να πάμε επίσκεψη στη φίλη σου;)

• Be careful! I don't have to=δεν είναι απαραίτητο. Ι don't have to study today because tomorrow is a holiday!