Modal Auxiliaries

Modal Auxiliaries

What are they?

Helping verbs with special functions

Ask or give permission

may or might

The owner said we may pet her dog.

Show ability

can or could

He could touch the top of the tree.

Communicate a duty or obligation

should or must

You should arrive on time for your appointment.

Possibility (how likely something is going to happen)

may, might, could, should, or will

That visitor might adopt that puppy.

Multiple Choice

The turkey has been in the oven for an hour, so it ______ be done by now.

• should

• can

Multiple Choice

I ___ have solved the puzzle, but let me double check.

• can

• may

Multiple Choice

___ I borrow this book when you are done with it? I promise to return it.

• Would

• May

Multiple Choice

Caleb _____ play the guitar if he had more free time.

• will

• would

Multiple Choice

Nadia _____ roller skate until she hurt her knee.

• could

• should

Multiple Choice

Cats ___ see in near darkness, and they have a better sense of smell than humans.

• should

• can