Modal Verbs

That man CAN'T be a doctor. He looks too young.

• impossibility

• prohibition

You CAN'T wear jeans at work. Men have to wear a suit and a tie.

• impossibility

• prohibition

Did you know that Mozart COULD play the piano by the time he was five?

• possibility

• ability

I'm not sure where the café is. I think it COULD be in the next street.

• possibility

• ability

When you've finished the test, you MAY quietly leave the room.

• possibility

• permission

I'm busy tomorrow but I MAY be able to see you on Thursday. Let me phone you.

• possibility

• permission

You know what? I think this rain MIGHT be stopping.

• possibility

• permission

I know you're busy, but MIGHT I ask you a quick question?

• possibility

• permission

I'm just writing to say congratulations on your engagement. You MUST be really happy!

• certainty

• obligation

You MUST make sure that you save all documents in the correct folder.

• certainty

• obligation