Present Modal Verbs of Deduction and Probability

Could, May, Might

• To express certainty

• To express possibilities for the future

• For possible explanations

• To give advice

Can't, Couldn't, Must

• To express certainty

• To express possibilities for the future

• for possible explanations

• To give advice

They ____ be away for the weekend but I'm not sure.

She ____ be Australian, judging by her accent.

• can

• could

• have to

• has to

She ____ be from England. She doesn't speak English.

• may

• might

• can

• can't

You ____ be right but I'm going to check anyway.

• might

• can

• can't

• must

This ____ be the right answer but we'll have to check with the teacher to make sure.

• can't

• couldn't

• could

• must

The exam ____ be easy. You never know.

I _____ go to the party but I'm not sure yet.

With luck, restrictions _____ be lowered next Sunday.

• must

• can't

• could

• should