modal verb meanings

What's the meaning of the modal verb in this sentence?

He can ski.

• permission

• advice

• obligation

• ability

• probability

Answer explanation

If you say he CAN ski, it means he has the ability to ski.

What's the meaning of the modal verb in this sentence?

You can’t pay by check.

• permission

• advice

• obligation

• (un)willingness

• ability

Answer explanation

If you say you CAN'T pay by check, it means you don't have permission to pay by check.

What's the meaning of the modal verb in this sentence?

You must stop at the crossroads.

• permission

• advice

• obligation

• (un)willingness

• ability

Answer explanation

If you say you MUST stop at a crossroads, it means you are obligated to do it - it's a rule for drivers.

What's the meaning of the modal verb in this sentence?

You must see the film.

• permission

• advice

• obligation

• probability

• ability

Answer explanation

If you say you MUST see a film, it's a way to give advice.

What's the meaning of the modal verb in this sentence?

He must be rich.

• permission

• advice

• obligation

• probability

• ability

Answer explanation

If you say someone MUST be rich, you're saying it's probable that he's rich.

What's the meaning of the modal verb in this sentence?

I’ll help you.

• permission

• advice

• obligation

• probability

• (un)willingness

Answer explanation

If you say you WILL help someone, you're willing to help them.

What's the meaning of the modal verb in this sentence?

You should do more exercise.

• permission

• advice

• obligation

• probability

• (un)willingness

Answer explanation

If you say someone SHOULD exercise more, you're giving advice.

What's the meaning of the modal verb in this sentence?

It will be a good party.

• permission

• advice

• ability

• probability

• (un)willingness

Answer explanation

If you say a party WILL be good, you're saying that it's probable it will be a good party.

What's the meaning of the modal verb in this sentence?

It might rain.

• obligation

• advice

• ability

• probability

• (un)willingness

Answer explanation

If you say it MIGHT rain, you're saying that it's possible it will rain which is probability.