essay using modal verbs of obligation

Modal Verbs of Obligation — Examples and Worksheet

| Candace Osmond

Candace Osmond

Candace Osmond studied Advanced Writing & Editing Essentials at MHC. She’s been an International and USA TODAY Bestselling Author for over a decade. And she’s worked as an Editor for several mid-sized publications. Candace has a keen eye for content editing and a high degree of expertise in Fiction.

The four most common modal verbs of obligations are must, have to, should, and ought to. We use these modal verbs in any form for rules, laws, strong advice, and warm invitations.

Learn the complete definition and examples of modal verbs of obligations. Then, answer the worksheet I whipped up and provided to test your understanding.

What Are the Modal Verbs of Obligation?

httpsgrammarist.comgrammarmodal verbs of obligation

In English grammar, a modal verb is a type of auxiliary verb that indicates a specific modality . These are single-word verbs like should, must, shall, can, and could.

Modal verbs of obligation indicate obligation. This type of verb accompanies the base form of the main verb or the bare infinitive form.

There are two main types of modal verbs of obligation:

Modal verbs that show a firm obligation ( must, have to )
Modal verbs that show recommendation or moral obligation ( should , ought to )

We can express modals in passive or active form. We can also use some in negative forms, perfect forms, and closed question forms. For example:

Active form: You should read more grammar books to learn English.
Negative form: You should not accessorize your school uniform.
Question form: Should I stop smoking?

Modals of Obligation

Let’s look at the different modal verbs of obligation in the English language.

Use must when discussing obligations. It is typically used by a person of strong obligation. The correct form is subject + must + main verb or subject + must not + main verb for the negative form. Must not has no question form or past tense form.

Here are some sentence examples.

You must go to the office early tomorrow.
Everyone must not talk loudly.

Must can also indicate warm invitations. Here are some examples.

You must come to our dinner tomorrow.
You must join us for a celebration!

You can also express this modal of obligation in its present perfect form using must have or must not have . For example:

You must have brought your assignment if you wanted to pass the subject.

Must have done is a rare modal verb of deduction or speculation. It is not a modal verb of obligation in the past.

Have to is the same as must, except it expresses external obligation. That means we use have to for rules, laws, and other external obligations. The negative form is don’t have to, which indicates an absence of obligation or negative obligation.

Like other modals, we use have to with a normal verb in its base form. For example:

You have to clean your room. Mom told you to do it.
She has to obey the school rules.
You don’t have to bring the documents if your employer doesn’t require them.

We can also express have to in past form, which is had to or didn’t have to. For example:

All you had to do was pick her up, but you didn’t.

Its other conjugations are has/have had to, has/have not had to, will have to, and will not have to.

Have got to is a British version of have to , which is stronger than have to . Its negative form is haven’t got to. For example:

You’ve got to squeeze the ball harder.
You’ve got to ride the car.
We haven’t got to pay for the ride.

We can also use got to, gotta, and have got to in informal contexts, usually in the present tense. For example:

We’ve gotta hurry now.

Need to implies strong recommendation. Its negative form is don’t need to or needn’t in informal situations. Remember that needn’t does not require a to after it. For example:

You need to wear red.
You don’t need to worry about me.
You need not/needn’t find me.

Unlike must and have to, should expresses weak obligation. This modal verb can also be used to give advice. Its negative form is shouldn’t or should not.

You should bring your gym uniform to school tomorrow.
She shouldn’t leave the television on when no one is at home.
I should not eat too many sweets. It’s terrible for my health.

The present perfect form of should is should have or shouldn’t have. For example:

You should have passed by my house when you visited the city.

Ought to also expresses weak obligation. Its negative form is ought not to or oughtn’t to when contracted . For example:

You ought to listen carefully to my story.
Kelly ought to go by herself to the library.
They oughtn’t to have let that happen.

The present perfect form of ought to is ought to have or ought not to have. For example:

Her brother ought to have listened to their warnings.

Modal Verbs Summary

This guide has shown you the meaning and types of modal verbs of obligations. Remember that modal verbs are auxiliary verbs paired with a main verb to indicate modality.

We use modal verbs of obligation in any form for suggestions, obligations, necessity, and warm invitations. The four most common examples are must, should, have to , and ought to.

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Part Three Editing / Grammar Skills

Unit 15 Modals

Learning Objectives

To understand what modals are and what principles they follow
To learn the challenges and strategies in using appropriate modals
To learn the meanings and uses of modals and modal-like expressions through multiple examples
To practice using modals through a variety of writing situations

showcase of culture artifacts at entrance of ESL & Linguistics Department at Harper College

The following ten sentences are about some customs from different countries. The modal and main verb are bold-faced in each sentence. If the bold-faced part is correct, choose “correct”. If not, choose the other answer. After you finish one sentence, you will get instant feedback on your answer before the next sentence. If you make mistakes, you can retry all the questions or see all the answers at the end of the pre-test.

II. Principles of Using Modals

As you have learned in Unit 9 Verb Basics in Academic Writing ( Open Unit 9 here ) , modals are an important part of the verb family. They are considered helping verbs, also called auxiliary verbs. Most modals follow the following principles:

1. They cannot exist by themselves. They are followed by the base form of main verbs to show different meanings and tones.

modal + base form of main verb = complete verb

In the United States, people should call ahead before visiting someone. ( no “calls, called, calling, to call” )
People must not show the “OK” gesture [1] with the thumb and index finger in Mexico. ( no “shows, showed, showing, to show” )

2. Contractions are common are in modals, such as “shouldn’t” and “mustn’t”. However, “may” and “might” do not have a contraction form. It is wrong to write “mayn’t” and “mightn’t”.

two words "yes" and "no" with "yes" crossed out

Small children mayn’t stay ( may not stay ) alone at home in the United States.
It mightn’t be ( might not be ) a good idea for children to stay in their friend’s home overnight.

3. Some expressions are called modal-like expressions. There is a “to” in them, and the base form of the verb follows the “to”. These expressions include: be able to, be supposed to, have to, have got to, ought to, and some others.

People have to come on time for an appointment in the United States.
They are supposed to explain the reasons if they are late.

4. Some modals and modal-like expressions are often used in conversations only.

In Thailand, people had better not touch the head of a statue.
In the U.S. restaurants, customers have got to tip the waiters and waitresses.

Exercise 1. The following sentences are about dining customs in some countries. There are mistakes in the form of modals and main verbs. Identify each mistake by underlining the whole verb (modal + main verb) and then correct the mistake. If the main verb is missing, add it.

Example :

People can to learn ( can learn ) about different customs and traditions when they travel abroad.

Dinning traditions may the most interesting to most people.
In Kenya, guests should to wash their hands both before and after the meal. They cannot sitting with their feet and toes pointing toward any of the other guests or the food. Kenyans do not use utensils [2] . They eat with their right hand. They must not to use their left hand during the whole meal.
Americans and Europeans have opposite dinning etiquettes [3] . Americans should holds the knife in their right hand and the fork in their left hand, but the Europeans are suppose to hold the knife in their left hand and the fork in their right hand.
People in Morocco practice communal [4] eating. This means that they eat from the communal bowl closest to them. A person must eats using his or her right hand. The left hand mayn’t be used to get food. If a bone is taken, the person supposed to suck the marrow [5] from it.

III. Challenges in Learning Modals and the Strategies in Using Them

1. The same modal may have different meanings in different contexts.

I can drive a car because I have a driver’s license. (permission)
I can drive a car because I know how to drive. (ability)

2. The same meaning can be expressed with different modals, but the tone or level of strength is different.

In order to drive in the U.S, a person must have a driver’s license. (stronger)
In order to drive in the U.S, a person has to have a driver’s license. (less strong)

3. Some modals have the appearance of past tense, but they have a present or future meaning.

Most cultural traditions stay for generations, but some might change quickly.
People had better learn the customs of another country when they travel there.

Strategies:

1. Understand a modal, its meaning, its time (past, present, future), and its form together as a “package”.

In many countries in the past, young people had to follow the custom of the arranged marriage.
In some countries nowadays and in the near future, some young people still must follow the custom of the arranged marriage.

In both sentences, “had to follow” and “must follow” have the same meaning: obligation, responsibility, necessity.

However, the first sentence shows the meaning in the past, and its form is “had to + follow”.

In the second sentence, the same meaning is expressed in present and future sense, and its form is “must + follow”.

Therefore, try not to study modals in isolation [6] . Instead, understand them in the context and study the “package”.

2. Use the same strategy as in learning other aspects of English: practice, practice, and practice.

IV. Uses of Modals and Modal-Like Expressions

Meaning : advice, suggestions

In the United States, customers should tip the waiters or waitresses for their service. (present)
Customers ought to tip the waiters or waitresses for their service. (less common) (present)
They can tip /could tip 10 – 20% of the food bill. (present, softer tone)
Customers should not leave the restaurant without tipping the waiters or waitresses. (present)

Exercise 2. Give at least two suggestions for each of the following situations.

One of your classmates is going to visit your country as a tourist in summer .

Suggestion #1 : You should bring a few extra bottles of sunscreen because my country Colombia is near the equator and the sun is very intense.

Suggestion #2: You ought to try bandeja paisa. It is Colombia’s unofficial national dish.

One of your siblings has found an American boyfriend (or girlfriend)
One of your relatives is planning to study at Harper College for the first time.
One of your American friends is going to study at a university in your native country.
One of your professors is considering studying your native language.
One of your friends is nervous about meeting his parents-in-law for the first time.

Meaning: abilities

A 19th-century illustrated Sanskrit manuscript from the Bhagavad Gita, composed c. 400 BCE – 200 BCE.

There are many languages in India. Many people there can speak more than 5 different ones. (present)
They are able to speak Hindi, English, and some regional dialects. (present)
The Indian government recognizes twenty-three official languages, but most people cannot speak all of them. (present)
People in ancient Indian could speak Sanskrit, one of the earliest languages. (past)
They were able to speak Sanskrit as early as 2000 BC. (past)

Meaning: permissions

In Canada, college students can address / may address their professors by the first name. (present)
In Canada, college students could not drink alcohol in class fifty years ago, and they still cannot . (past, present)
In Ukraine, college students cannot call / may not call their professors by the first name. It is considered very impolite. (present)

Exercise 3. Finish the following sentences to express ability and permission.

When I was a child, I could climb a tree . (ability)

When I was a child, I could ____________________. (ability)
When I was a child, I could not ____________________ (ability)
Now I am an adult. I can ____________________ (ability)
Now I am an adult. I cannot ____________________. (ability)
When I was a student in my home country, I could ____________________ (permission)
When I was a student in my home country, I could not ____________________ (permission)
Now I am a student in the U.S. I can ____________________ (permission)
Now I am a student in the U.S. I cannot ____________________ (permission)

Meaning: necessity, obligation, responsibility

In Iraqi formal greetings, people must use a person’s surname and title, for example, Dr. Kazem. (present)
Men have to stand to greet a woman when she enters the room. (present)
A long time ago in Iraq, everyone had to stand when an elderly person arrived. This custom has remained to this day. (past)
In Iraqi culture, people do not have to kiss each other as a way of greeting. Handshaking is common. (present)

Meaning: prohibition [7]

People must not whistle inside a Mongolian ger, a round-shaped dwelling. (present)
In a ger, people must not point their feet to the north end. (present)

Exercise 4. Discuss the following questions. What are the answers in your home country? What are the answers in the United States?

Must people get married first if they want to live together?
Do people have to get their parents’ permission to get married?
Must men serve in the military?
Do school children have to wear uniforms?
What are the things you must not do on the street?
What are the things you must not do during a test?
What are the questions you must not ask a lady?

Meaning: possibilities

In Japan, parents do not kiss each other in front of their children. They must think / may think / might think / could think it improper [8] for the children to see their intimacy [9] . (present)
This custom may change / might change /could change in the near future. The young generation should welcome / may welcome / might welcome / could welcome this change. (future)
Some words are the same in writing in both Chinese and Japanese. However, the meanings of these words may not be / might not be the same. (present)

Meaning: expectations

On March 8, the International Women’s Day, men are supposed to buy flowers for women in Russia and many other Eastern European countries. (present)
On that day, women are not supposed to do much housework. They are supposed to take a day off. (present)
Last year, Natalia’s husband was supposed to buy flowers for her, but he forgot. (past)

Meaning: preferences

In some countries, people prefer arranged marriages. Parents would rather pick someone as their future son-in-law or daughter-in-law than let their child decide. (present)
Some young people would rather not get into a marriage than marry someone they do not love. (present)

Exercise 5. Write sentences according to the instructions.

Use modals of possibility to write three guesses why seafood is popular on Valentine’s Day in the U.S.
Use modals of expectation to write three things you are supposed to know when you go to an American family for dinner.
Use modals of preference to write three choices of food on New Year’s Eve in your home country.

V. Unit Review Practice

Exercise 6. Read the following sayings. Each contains a modal. Discuss what the saying means and whether you agree with it. Do you have similar sayings in your native language? How do you say them? If you can think of additional sayings with modals, please list them below.

You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.
You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.
You can’t have your cake and eat it too.
Beggars can’t be choosers.
People in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.
Children should be seen, not heard.
Bitter pills may have blessed effects.
Be careful what you wish for; you just might get it.

________________________________________

Exercise 7. The following sentences are about school uniforms. The modals and main verbs are underlined. Discuss their different meanings and time references (past, present, future) in the context. The first one is an example.

four girls in school uniform doing hand signs

School uniforms could be ( possibility, present) an important part of school traditions. Students in some schools must wear the school uniform. They may not attend school without their uniform. The uniform must be important.
A uniform reflects [10] the school and its reputation. Therefore, students are supposed to be in their best behavior.
Students with totally different uniforms cannot belong to the same school even though they may be siblings. They must not exchange their uniforms with students from other schools.
In some schools, uniforms are optional. Students may choose to wear one. They could also wear their own clothes. Some students would rather have the uniform. They would rather not spen d half an hour each morning choosing what to wear.
In most cases, uniforms are not free. Students have to purchase them. Most families are able to afford them, but some are not. This might increase the financial burden for some families.
Even though the students must wear their uniform while in school, they do not have to wear one after school.
Should schools require uniforms? There have been many debates [11] . If most students do not like them, they may disappear in the near future. Otherwise, they should stay for a long, long time.

Exercise 8. The follow is an essay on how high school students in different countries spend time in the summer. Underlined the modals and their main verbs. Then discuss what they means in the context and whether they express present, past, or future time. The first one is an example.

After you finish reading and understanding the first three paragraphs, write a new supporting paragraph about a person you know who spent last summer vacationing and relaxing. Then write a conclusion for the essay. Include at least five modals and modal-like expressions. You may write in the box below or in your own notebook. (Warning: Once you leave this page, you will lose what you have written in the box.)

How to Spend the Summer?

High school students in different countries may spend (possibility, present) their summer very differently. Some might value life experiences by working on a job, some could use the time catching up with their academic work, and others might consider it an opportunity to relax and have fun. How they spend their summer might reflect some of the customs and values of their cultures.

It is common for many high school students in the United States to work during the summer months. They could work in any type of job: food, travel, secretarial, health care, summer camp, and many others. Last summer, Joan worked as a summer camp activity leader. She was happy that the job provided her with valuable work experience as well as a small income. Both the experience and the money should be helpful in her future college study.

In Korea, however, it is not usual for high school students to hold a job in summer. They are supposed to take extra classes to prepare for university. Last summer, Ji-hoon kept himself busy by taking a few science and English classes in a cram school. Though he was very busy, he had to do so. He was determined to be better prepared for his university entrance exam.

Exercise 9. Choose two of the following topics and write a paragraph for each. Use proper modals.

Describe one of the holiday dinning traditions in your native country.
Describe some customs about naming a baby in your native country.
Explain one of the taboos [12] for a wedding ceremony in your native country.
Some people say that elderly parents should live with their adult children. Do you agree or disagree? Why do you think so?
In America, it is common to “go Dutch” (split the food bill in the restaurant) when people dine out. Is this practice common in your native culture? If not, why not? who usually pays for the meals?
Write about the joys and challenges of living in two cultures (your native culture and the American culture). What was your biggest cultural shock during your first two weeks in the U.S.?

NSNT Practice

Go to The NSNT Free Writing Approach and Additional Weekly Prompts for Writing in Appendix A. ( Open Appendix A here. ) Choose two topics that involve modals. You may start with the NSNT approach. Then revise and edit your paragraphs. Pay attention to the use of modals. You are encouraged to share your writing with your partner and help each other improve.

Vocabulary Review

The words here have appeared in this unit. The best way to learn them is to guess the meaning of each word from the context. Then hover your computer mouse over the number beside each word to check its meaning and part of speech. These words are also listed in the footnote area at the end of each unit.

Here, you can use the flashcards below to review these words.

Modals are helping verbs (also called auxiliary verbs). They must be used with a main verb to serve as the complete verb in a sentence: Modal + Main Verb = Complete Verb
A modal is followed by the base form of the main verb.
The same modals may mean differently in different contexts, and some others may share similar meanings but have differences in tone and level of emphasis.
Some modals have their unique forms of past tense. Some of them look like the past tense but mean present or future.
Do not use “mayn’t” and “mightn’t”.
A good strategy is to understand modals is by learning each modal, its meaning, its time reference, and its form together as a “package”.

Media Attributions

showcase of culture artifacts at entrance of ESL Department at Harper College © Lin Cui is licensed under a CC0 (Creative Commons Zero) license
two words “yes” and “no” with “yes” crossed out © Photo by cottonbro from Pexels
a plate of food with a fork and a knife © medium:after_download_modal.copy_text.photo: https://www.pexels.com/photo/boiled-potatoes-with-salad-and-meat-rissole-4210862/
A 19th-century illustrated Sanskrit manuscript from the Bhagavad Gita, composed c. 400 BCE – 200 BCE. © Unknown artist is licensed under a Public Domain license
three Mongolia gers © Photo by Audrius Sutkus on Unsplash
a dog balancing a ball © Photo by RODNAE Productions from Pexels
four girls in school uniform doing hand signs © Photo by 周康 from Pexels
sunglasses on sand © Photo by Ylanite Koppens from Pexels
a pen writing in a notebook © Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash
a page in a dictionary © Pixabay
gesture: noun, a movement of hands, arms, or another part of the body to express an idea or emotion ↵
utensil: noun, a dining tool such as a spoon or a fork ↵
etiquette: noun, a rule or tradition for proper social behavior ↵
communal: adjective, used or shared by everyone in the group ↵
marrow: noun, the soft, fatty part inside a bone ↵
in isolation: prepositional phrase, separately, apart from each other ↵
prohibition: noun, things that are not allowed ↵
improper: adjective, not appropriate, not right ↵
intimacy: noun, a very close, loving relationship ↵
reflect: verb, show, represent ↵
debate: noun, an argument ↵
taboo: noun, an unacceptable word or behavior especially in a group setting ↵

Modal Verbs of Obligation

Perfect english grammar.

You mustn't eat so much chocolate, you'll be sick
I don't have to get up early at the weekend(of course, if I want to get up early, that's fine, but I can stay in bed if I want).

* Remember 'must have done ' is a modal verb of deduction or speculation, not obligation in the past. For example: Julie must have left. Her coat's not here. See modals of probabilty for more information.

Click here to download this explanation as a pdf.
Click here for modal verbs of obligation exercise 1.
Click here for all the modal verbs exercises.

Hello! I'm Seonaid! I'm here to help you understand grammar and speak correct, fluent English.

What this handout is about

Modal verbs (will, would, should, may, can, could, might, must) precede another verb. Modals do not have subject-verb agreement or take the infinitive “to” before the next verb.

This handout shows how modals in academic writing can change a sentence’s meaning into a prediction, suggestion, or a question. Modals can also serve a social function to show uncertainty or politeness. They are especially common in discussion sections of research papers.

How to use this handout

This handout is best used with a piece of writing that benefits from being subjective. Each function alters a sentence’s perspective differently.

Logical possibility: expresses a degree of probability

Before: This is the fastest way to drive to Westwood. After: This might be the fastest way to drive to Westwood.

Ability: shows capability

Before: Riding the bus avoids traffic. After: Riding the bus can avoid traffic.

Necessity: expresses directness in attitude

Before: Wash your hands before preparing food. After: You must wash your hands before preparing food.

Permission: shows politeness

Before: I am going to your office hours. After: Can I go to your office hours?

Strength and frequency of modal verbs

In academic writing , modal verbs are most frequently used to indicate logical possibility and least frequently used to indicate permission. Eight modal verbs are listed under each of the functions they can perform in academic writing, and are ordered from strongest to weakest for each function. Notice that the same modal can have different strengths when it’s used for different functions (e.g., may or can).

Functions of modal verbs

This second table organizes examples of each modal by its use, also including an explanation.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Celce-Murcia, Marianne, and Diane Larsen-Freeman. 2015. The Grammar Book: An ESL/EFL Teacher’s Course , 3rd ed. Boston: Heinle & Heinle.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Modals for Obligation: Understanding and Usage Guide

Modals for obligation: a comprehensive guide to understanding and using them.

This page is about modal verbs for obligation : must, have to, should, ought to, and need to. For other types of modals click here .

Introduction:

English modal verbs can be used to express obligation . This article delves into the various modal verbs, such as must, have to, should, ought to, and need to , exploring their differences and usage. Gaining a better understanding of these verbs will improve your grasp of English grammar and enhance your communication skills.

A. What are modal verbs?

Modal verbs are a specific category of verbs in English that express various modalities, such as ability, permission, suggestion, and obligation. Modal verbs differ from regular verbs in their unique grammatical properties and usage patterns. They play a crucial role in conveying precise meanings and nuances in English sentences.

Examples of modal verbs include “may”, “can”, “may”, “must”, “should”, etc.

In this artcicle we will focus on modals for obligation , particularly, must, mustn”t, should, shouldn’t, have to, need, and needn”t.

B. Must and Have To: Firm Obligation and Necessity

“Must ” and ” have to” primarily express a firm obligation or necessity. It’s important to note that “ must ” only exists in the simple present and present perfect forms, whereas “ have to ” encompasses all normal tenses.

Must in the present

In the present, ‘must’ expresses obligation, necessity, certainty, or logical conclusion in the present:

Obligation :
You must complete your assignments before the deadline.
I must attend the meeting tomorrow.
You must see a doctor at once!
Necessity :
She must drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
We must take the necessary precautions to prevent accidents.
Certainty or a logical conclusion in the present :
The sun is shining brightly. It must be a beautiful day outside.
He hasn”t answered his phone all day. He must be busy.
The sky is dark, and I hear thunder. It must be raining outside.
They haven’t arrived yet. They must be stuck in traffic .

Must with the Present Perfect (logical conclusion in the past):

The structure ‘ must + have + past participle ‘ expresses a logical conclusion about something that happened in the past.

They are not here. They must have gone to Chicago.
The bus is late again. We must have missed it.

The term “mustn”t” is a contraction of “must not.” It is used to indicate prohibition, something that is not allowed. Here are a few situations where “mustn”t” is commonly used:

Prohibitions :
You mustn”t smoke in this area.
Students mustn”t use their cell phones during the exam.
Rules and Regulations :
Passengers mustn”t exceed the baggage weight limit.
Employees mustn”t disclose confidential information.
Safety Instructions :
Visitors mustn”t enter the construction site without proper authorization.
You mustn”t operate the machinery without wearing protective gear.

3. Have To:

Like ” must “, “ have to ” expresses obligation . But unlike, “ must “, “ have to ” can be used in different tenses:

Have to in the affirmative: Expressing obligation or necessity.

‘ Have to ‘ in the affirmative expresses obligation or necessity .

I have to be at school tomorrow at 8 a.m. I have an exam!
I have to submit the report by the end of the day.
She has to attend the meeting later.
They have to finish their homework before going out.
We have to pay the bills before the due date.
The employees have to follow the dress code policy.
He has to take his medication three times a day.
The students have to complete the assignment by Friday.
The team has to meet the project deadline.
We have to book our flights in advance.
She has to wake up early for work every morning.

Have to in the negative: Indicating the absence of obligation or necessity.

“ Have to ” in the negative is “ don’t have to “. It indicates the absence of obligation or necessity .

You don’t have to attend the meeting if you’re busy.
They don’t have to finish the project today; they can work on it tomorrow.
You don’t have to bring a gift to the party; your presence is enough.
We don’t have to wear formal attire to the casual gathering.
She doesn’t have to cook dinner tonight; we’ll order takeout instead.
He doesn’t have to attend the optional workshop if he’s not interested.
They don’t have to submit the application form again; it’s already been received.
I don’t have to stay late at the office; my work is completed for the day.
You don’t have to apologize for the mistake; it was a minor oversight.
We don’t have to follow that specific route; there’s an alternative way.
She doesn’t have to answer the phone if she doesn’t want to.

4. Have to vs. must

What is the difference between “have to” and “must” ? Although both words express obligation, there are some notable distinctions. “Must” conveys an internal obligation, originating from the speaker, while “have to” conveys an external obligation, originating from outside the speaker.

Examples and explanations:

Must (Internal Obligation) :
Speaker’s Obligation: I must finish my assignment tonight.
Explanation: The speaker feels a personal obligation to complete the assignment. It is their own judgment or conviction that drives them to prioritize finishing it.
Have to (External Obligation) :
External Obligation: I have to attend the meeting tomorrow .
Explanation: The obligation to attend the meeting comes from external circumstances or rules. It could be a requirement set by the organization or someone in authority.

Here are the main similarities and differences::

Affirmative Form:

“Must” is a modal verb and does not change its form regardless of the subject or tense.
“Have to” is a verb phrase that is conjugated according to the tense, subject, and auxiliary verb “have.”

Negative Form:

“Must” is negated by adding “not” or using the contraction “musn’t.”
“Have to” is negated by using “do not/does not have to” or the contractions “don’t/doesn’t have to.”

Interrogative Form:

Questions with “must” are formed by inverting the subject and the modal verb: “Must I?” “Must they?”
Questions with “have to” are formed using the auxiliary verb “do”: “Do I have to?” “Does he have to?”

In summary, “must” emphasizes personal conviction, strong recommendations, and internal obligations , while “have to” emphasizes external obligation, requirements, and compliance with rules or circumstances .

Comparison Table: Difference between must and have to

5. mustn”t vs. don’t have to: understanding the difference.

Understanding the distinction between “must not ” and “ don’t have to ” is essential as they carry contrasting meanings.

1. Must Not:

“ Must not ” implies prohibition or being forbidden from doing something. It indicates a strong restriction or requirement to refrain from a specific action.

You must not smoke in this area.

2. Don’t Have To:

“ Don’t have to ” indicates the absence of obligation or not being required to do something. It suggests that a particular action is optional or unnecessary, and there are no strict requirements to fulfill.

It is crucial to understand the differences between “must not” and “don’t have to.” This helps you accurately convey whether an action is prohibited or optional. Additionally, the use of “got to” in informal contexts can add emphasis or urgency to the obligation expressed by “have to.”

6. Usage of “Got To”

In informal styles, “ have to ” is often accompanied by “ got ” in spoken English, especially in the present tense. While it doesn’t alter the meaning, it adds emphasis or urgency to the obligation.

I’ve got to finish this report by tomorrow.
We’re late; we”ve got to hurry.

C. Should and Ought To: Recommendation or Moral Obligation

“ Should ” and “ought to “ express advice, recommendations, or moral obligations. They are synonymous and used to suggest or advise certain actions or behaviors.

‘Should’ expresses advice or recommendation.

You should apologize for your mistake.
You should study for the exam if you want to do well.
He should take a break and get some rest; he’s been working too hard.
We should eat more fruits and vegetables for a balanced diet.
They should visit the museum; it’s a fascinating place.
I think you should apologize to your friend for what you said.
She should consider taking up a hobby to relax and unwind.
It’s raining outside; you should take an umbrella with you.
The movie received excellent reviews; you should watch it.
We should save money for our future financial security.
They should arrive early to secure good seats for the concert.

The negative of “should”

The negative of “ should ” is “ shouldn’t ”

You shouldn’t worry about that.
You shouldn’t eat too much junk food; it’s not good for your health.
They shouldn’t spend all their money on unnecessary items.
We shouldn’t ignore the importance of regular exercise.
He shouldn’t skip breakfast; it’s the most important meal of the day.
The company shouldn’t overlook the feedback from customers.
Students shouldn’t procrastinate; they should start working on their assignments early.
I shouldn’t forget to call my parents; they”ve been waiting to hear from me.
She shouldn’t be rude to others; it’s important to treat people with respect.
You shouldn’t rely solely on luck; hard work is necessary for success.
We shouldn’t underestimate the challenges that lie ahead.

In these examples, “ shouldn’t ” is used to advise against or discourage certain actions or behaviors. It implies that the mentioned actions are not desirable or advisable based on the speaker”s opinion or judgment.

2. Ought To:

Similar to “ should “, “ ought to ” expresse s advice, recommendations, or moral obligations .

We ought to be more environmentally conscious.
You ought to apologize for your mistake.
We ought to be more mindful of our environmental impact.
He ought to study harder if he wants to pass the exam.
They ought to consider all the options before making a decision.
The government ought to invest more in healthcare services.
She ought to call her parents regularly to keep in touch.
I ought to take some time off and relax.
We ought not to judge others based on appearances.
You ought to be grateful for the opportunities you have.
They ought not to waste food; it’s important to reduce food waste .

Ought to in the negative

“ Ought to ” in the negative is “ ought not to “.

You ought not to interfere in their personal matters.
She ought not to eat so much junk food if she wants to stay healthy.
They ought not to be late for the meeting; punctuality is important.
We ought not to waste electricity; remember to turn off the lights when you leave the room.
He ought not to gossip about others; it’s not a good habit.
You ought not to neglect your responsibilities; take them seriously.
They ought not to rely solely on luck; preparation is key to success.
The company ought not to overlook the feedback from customers; it can help improve their products.
We ought not to judge others based on their appearance; it’s important to look beyond stereotypes.
She ought not to spend all her money on unnecessary things; it’s important to save for the future.
You ought not to skip breakfast; it’s the most important meal of the day.

In these examples, “ ought not to ” is used to express a recommendation or advise against a particular action. It suggests that the action is not desirable or advisable based on social norms, moral values, or practical considerations.

3. Ought to vs should

‘ Should ” and “ ought to ” are similar in meaning and usage. They both express advice, recommendation or the speaker”s opinion about what is the right or appropriate course of action. While there may be slight differences in formality or emphasis between “should” and “ought to,” they can generally be used interchangeably in most contexts.

Here are the main differences:

Formality and Politeness :
“Should”: “Should” is generally considered more common, informal, and widely used in everyday language.
“Ought to”: “Ought to” is slightly less common and is often perceived as more formal or polite, especially in written or formal contexts.
Negation and Interrogation :
“Should”: The negative form of “should” is “shouldn’t” (should not)
“Ought to”: The negative form of “ought to” is “ought not to” (or “oughtn’t to”)

Need To: expressing necessity

“Need to” is used to express necessity or strong recommendations. In its affirmative form, it indicates that something is required or recommended. In its negative form, it suggests the absence of obligation or the lack of necessity.

I need to study for the upcoming exam.
We need to take immediate action to address the issue.
She needs to finish her work before the deadline.
They need to buy groceries for tonight”s dinner.
You don’t need to worry about that.
He needn’t attend the meeting if he has a conflicting appointment.
We don’t need to rush; there’s plenty of time.
They needn’t bring their own laptops; we’ll provide them.

Conclusion:

The modal verbs must, have to, should, ought to, and need to each have their unique nuances and usage patterns. By grasping the distinctions between these modal verbs, learners can accurately convey obligations, necessities, recommendations, and moral obligations in their speech and writing.

Modal verbs
Present and past of modals
Modals for Obligation
Must and have to
Shall and will
Is need a modal verb?
Exercise on modals
Exercise on modals in the past
Exercise on modals: mustn’t or needn’t
Exercise on have to vs don’t have to
Exercise on Modals for Obligation: must, mustn’t, don’t have/doesn’t have to
Exercise on the meaning of modals

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A1-A2 grammar

Have to, must and should for obligation and advice

Oliver and Alfie visit the local pet shop, where they are surprised to see Amy. Meanwhile, something is on Sophie's mind ...

Instructions

As you watch the video, look at the examples of have to, must and should. They are in red in the subtitles. Then read the conversation below to learn more. Finally, do the grammar exercises to check you understand, and can use, have to, must and should correctly.

Oliver: Amy! Hi! What are you doing here? Amy: It's my new Saturday job. Hi, Alfie. Oliver: Really? Alfie: Hi. Amy: Yes. I want to study veterinary science at university and my parents suggested I should get some experience of working with animals. Oliver: And do you like it? Amy: It's my first day ... Anyway. What can I do for you? Oliver: Well, I've got some money and I've decided I'd quite like a pet. Daisy and Mum like the idea, but Mum says I mustn't get a spider, a scorpion or a snake. Amy: That's understandable. Alfie: Let's see the dogs. Oh yeah! Look at these, mate! Puppies! What's that white one? Amy: That's a Dalmatian. Alfie: But they've got black spots, haven't they? Amy: Not when they're puppies, no. You have to wait until they're bigger. Then the spots appear. Alfie: Ah, I never knew that. Dalmatians are quite big, aren't they? Amy: Yes, they are. You should really have a garden. Oliver: Well, we've got one ... Amy: And you have to take them out for a walk twice a day. Well, you don't have to go twice, but you must go at least once. Every day. Rain, snow, sun ... every day. And you mustn't forget to take two or three small plastic bags when you go out. Oliver: Plastic bags? Amy: Well, when your dog … you shouldn't leave it on the street. You should always clean it up and put it in the bin. Oliver: Hmm. And a smaller dog? Should I get one of these? Amy: They're Yorkshire terriers. They're very small ... Alfie: ... and noisy! You'd better get something a bit quieter, Ollie. Think of your neighbours! Oliver: How about that one? Amy: As an adult, Old English Sheepdogs are extremely large – like that one. And you've got to look after their hair regularly. You should brush them as often as possible, and get their hair cut. Oliver: Hmm. What about a cat? Alfie: We used to have a cat. She was a bit unfriendly. She used to scratch the sofa – and our legs – and she stole food if you left it for a moment. You've got to be careful with a cat – some are nice, but some are ... well ... Oliver: Oh, ff. A turtle? They're small and quiet and they don't have hair ... Amy: They grow. And then you have to buy a bigger tank. You'd better buy a thermostat and a filter if you want a turtle. And you mustn't forget to change the water; they don't smell great ... Oliver: What about a hamster?...

Sophie: I don't know what I should do. I mean, I don't want you to feel uncomfortable ... Daisy: I don't mind! And if you like him ... why not? He has to decide if he wants to go out with the mother of a student, though. But he seems nice. Maybe you should go for a coffee or lunch and see how you feel? If you don't like him, you don't have to see him again. Sophie: I shouldn't be asking you about this sort of thing! Oh, but I feel like a teenager. Why do these things have to be so complicated? Daisy: It's not complicated, Mum! You mustn't forget, he's the one who suggested going for a drink, so he obviously likes you – and you obviously like him! What's complicated? Sophie: I'm in New Zealand! I'm about to go and fly over volcanoes ... it's not easy to combine my kind of life with ... well, with a romance!! Daisy: You'll be home next week, and maybe you should take some time off travelling. Spend some time with us. And with him. And I'll be leaving school in a year ... so ... go on, Mum. Life's too short! You should phone him! Sophie: Well, I'll think about it. I'd better go – I mustn't miss the helicopter! Is Oliver there? Daisy: No, he's out buying that pet ... ah no, here he is. Ollie, it's Mum. Oliver: Hi, Mum! Sophie: Did you get anything? Oliver: Yes I did! And his name's Hannibal.

We use have to / must / should + infinitive to talk about obligation, things that are necessary to do, or to give advice about things that are a good idea to do.

Mus t and have to are both used for obligation and are often quite similar. They are both followed by the infinitive.

I must go now. / I have to go now.

Are these exactly the same?

Well, almost. We often use must for more personal opinions about what it is necessary to do, and have to for what somebody in authority has said it is necessary to do.

I must remember to get a present for Daisy. (my opinion) You have to look after their hair regularly. (dog experts say so) Do you have to wear a tie for school? (asking about school rules)

Which verb do people use more?

Have to is more frequent in conversation; must is used more in formal writing, for example in written notices.

Passengers must fasten their seat-belts.

Do they change in form for I , you , he , she , etc.?

Hav e changes in the third person singular ( he/she/it has ); but must doesn’t change. It’s a modal verb and modals don’t change.

I think I’ve heard have got to . Is that correct?

Yes, we use both have got to , for obligation, and had better , for advice, a lot in speaking. You 've got to be careful with a cat You 'd better get something a bit quieter. I 'd better go – I mustn't miss the helicopter!

So they’re not used in formal writing?

No. There’s something very important about must and have to . The positive forms are very similar in meaning, but the negative forms are completely different.

You mustn’t forget ... (don’t forget - you have no choice) If you don't like him, you don't have to see him again. (there is no obligation to see him again, but you have a choice)

Umm, I’m still a bit confused ...

Here's an example you can remember: In a non-smoking area you mustn’t smoke, but in a smoking area you don’t have to smoke but you can if you want to.

Ah! Right, I mustn’t forget that.

No, you mustn’t ! OK, let’s look at advice, telling people what you think is a good idea. We use should for advice, or making suggestions, and must for strong advice.

You must go for a walk with the dog at least once a day. Maybe you should go for a coffee or lunch and see how you feel? You shouldn't leave it on the street.

I think I’ve heard people use should in other ways, like ' he should be here in a minute' – that’s not advice, is it?

No, that’s talking about what is likely or probable. We’ll look at that use another day. We use modal verbs in different ways.

I see. So I should think about one use at a time.

Yes, exactly. You mustn’t get confused by too many uses at once.

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Modal verbs of obligation.

Modal Verbs of Obligation Course Syllabus
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In this section of the course, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the two most important modal verbs of obligation. You’ll start off by reviewing what a modal verb is and why it’s different to a normal verb then you’ll watch a grammar explanation video to understand how to use modals of obligation in English.

Get started with modal verbs of obligation!

To get started, click on the first activity below and you’ll be taken to this lesson. You can also navigate through the course using the menu on the left.

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Modal Verbs: Useful Rules, List and Examples in English

Are you struggling to understand the concept of modal verbs? Look no further! In this article, we will dive into the basics of modal verbs and provide you with a clear understanding of their function in English grammar.

It is important to note that modal verbs have a unique set of rules that differ from regular verbs. For example, they do not use an “s” for the third person singular, and they make questions by inversion. It is also important to understand the different nuances of each modal verb and how they are used in context. So, let’s get started and explore the world of modal verbs together!

Definition of Modal Verbs

Modal verbs are a special class of auxiliary verbs that are used to modify the meaning of the main verb in a sentence. They are also known as modal auxiliary verbs or simply modals. Modal verbs are used to express different kinds of meanings such as possibility, ability, permission, necessity, and more.

Modal verbs are always used in combination with ordinary verbs and they change the meaning of the verb to something different from simple fact. They are commonly used in English and are an essential part of the language.

The following are some of the most common modal verbs in English:

Each of these modal verbs has a specific meaning and usage in English. For example, “can” is used to express ability, “may” is used to express possibility, and “must” is used to express necessity.

Modal verbs are also used to create different tenses in English. For example, “could” is used to create the past conditional tense, while “will” is used to create the future tense.

It is important to note that modal verbs do not have infinitive or participle forms. They are always used in their base form, and they do not take the -ing or -ed endings.

In summary, modal verbs are a special class of auxiliary verbs that are used to modify the meaning of the main verb in a sentence. They are used to express different kinds of meanings such as possibility, ability, permission, necessity, and more. Understanding the usage of modal verbs is essential for effective communication in English.

Types of Modal Verbs

Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express a range of meanings such as ability, permission, possibility, obligation, and advice. Here are the different types of modal verbs:

Modal verbs of ability express whether you are capable of doing something or not. The most common modal verbs of ability are “can” and “could.” Here are some examples:

You can speak English fluently.
I could run a marathon when I was younger.

Modal verbs of permission express whether you are allowed to do something or not. The most common modal verbs of permission are “may” and “can.” Here are some examples:

May I leave early today?
Can I borrow your car for the weekend?

Possibility

Modal verbs of possibility express the likelihood of something happening. The most common modal verbs of possibility are “may,” “might,” “could,” and “can.” Here are some examples:

It may rain later today.
The train might be delayed.
She could be at home.

Modal verbs of obligation express whether you are required to do something or not. The most common modal verbs of obligation are “must” and “should.” Here are some examples:

You must submit your report by Friday.
You should apologize for your mistake.

Modal verbs of advice express recommendations or suggestions. The most common modal verbs of advice are “should” and “ought to.” Here are some examples:

You should exercise regularly to stay healthy.
You ought to try the new restaurant in town.

In summary, modal verbs are essential in expressing different meanings in English. Understanding the different types of modal verbs can help you communicate more effectively and accurately.

Modal Verbs: Rules & Examples

Learn how and when to use modal verbs in English with rules and example sentences.

1. To indicate that something is probable or possible, or not so.

For example:

It is sunny today; it must be warm outside. = It is sunny today; it is probably warm outside.
His mobile is not reachable; he may/might/could be travelling by metro. = His mobile is not reachable; it is possible that he is travelling by metro.
This can’t be our bill. = It is not possible that this is our bill.

2. ‘Can’ and ‘could’ are used to refer to skills and abilities.

He can cover a hundred metres in under ten seconds.
My father could see perfectly before the age of fifty.
I can’t ride a horse.

3. ‘Must’ is used to indicate that something is necessary or of extreme importance, and ‘should’ is used to suggest that something is advisable.

You must do your homework.
You mustn’t skip school.
You should say sorry.
You shouldn’t smoke.

4. ‘Can’, ‘could’ and ‘may’ are used to ask for, give and withhold permission.

Can I try my hand at it?
Could we disperse early today?
You may not enter the premises.

5. ‘Will’ and ‘would’ are used to refer to habits and inclinations.

When I was a child, I would often climb trees.
I will never refuse you anything.
He would never do such a thing.

Note : These verbs differ from ordinary verbs in 3 respects.

When used with the third person singular (he, she), they don’t require the addition of an ‘s’.
They can be used to form questions by inverting the structure of the sentence.
They can be followed directly by the verb, without the use of ‘to’.

Usage of Modal Verbs

Modal verbs are an essential part of English grammar. They are used to express a variety of meanings such as ability, possibility, permission, and obligation. In this section, we will discuss the usage of modal verbs in statements, questions, and negative sentences.

In Statements

Modal verbs are often used in statements to express various meanings. Here are some examples:

Ability: “I can speak French fluently.”
Possibility: “It may rain tomorrow.”
Permission: “You may leave the room now.”
Obligation: “You must finish your homework before going out.”

Note that when using modal verbs in statements, the main verb is always in its base form (infinitive) without “to.”

In Questions

Modal verbs are also commonly used in questions to ask for permission, ability, or possibility. Here are some examples:

Permission: “May I leave the room now?”
Ability: “Can you swim?”
Possibility: “Could it be true?”

In questions, the modal verb is usually placed at the beginning of the sentence.

In Negative Sentences

Modal verbs can also be used in negative sentences to express the absence of ability, permission, or obligation. Here are some examples:

Ability: “I cannot speak French fluently.”
Permission: “You may not leave the room now.”
Obligation: “You must not forget to lock the door.”

In negative sentences, the word “not” is added after the modal verb.

It is important to note that some modal verbs have different meanings depending on the context. For example, “must” can express obligation, but it can also be used to express a strong recommendation or deduction. In addition, some modal verbs have more than one form, such as “may” and “might,” which can both be used to express possibility.

Overall, modal verbs are an important part of English grammar and are used in a variety of contexts. By understanding their usage in statements, questions, and negative sentences, you can improve your English communication skills.

Common Modal Verb Phrases

Modal verbs are often used with other verbs to create phrases that convey a specific meaning. Here are some common modal verb phrases and their meanings:

Can’t help but – This phrase is used to express that you cannot stop yourself from doing something. For example, “I can’t help but smile when I see puppies.”
Have to – This phrase is used to express obligation or necessity. For example, “I have to finish my homework before I can go out.”
Need to – This phrase is used to express that something is necessary. For example, “I need to drink water after exercising.”
Should have – This phrase is used to express regret about something that was not done in the past. For example, “I should have studied more for the test.”
Would rather – This phrase is used to express a preference. For example, “I would rather stay at home than go to the party.”
Must have – This phrase is used to express certainty about something that happened in the past. For example, “He must have left his phone at home.”
Might as well – This phrase is used to suggest doing something because there is no reason not to. For example, “Since we have some extra time, we might as well go for a walk.”

Modal verb phrases can be very useful in expressing specific meanings and adding nuance to your language. It’s important to use them correctly and in the appropriate context.

Modal Verbs vs Auxiliary Verbs

When it comes to understanding the English language, it’s important to know the difference between modal verbs and auxiliary verbs. While both of these types of verbs are used to help the main verb in a sentence, there are some key differences between them.

Modal Verbs

Modal verbs, also known as modal auxiliary verbs, are a group of verbs that give additional information about the function of the main verb. They show possibility, intent, ability, or necessity. Modal verbs do not change their appearance, and they are used alongside the infinitive form of the main verb of a sentence.

Some common examples of modal verbs include:

Modal verbs are used to show if you believe something is certain, possible, or impossible. They can also be used to talk about ability, ask permission, and make requests and offers.

Auxiliary Verbs

Auxiliary verbs , also known as helping verbs, are used to help the main verb in a sentence. They change according to certain factors in the sentence, such as tense, person, and number.

Some common examples of auxiliary verbs include:

Auxiliary verbs can be used to form different tenses, such as the present perfect or past continuous. They can also be used to form questions and negatives.

In summary, the main difference between modal verbs and auxiliary verbs is that modal verbs do not change their appearance, while auxiliary verbs change according to certain factors in the sentence. Understanding the difference between these two types of verbs can help you to use them correctly in your writing and speaking.

Modal Verbs in Different Tenses

When it comes to tenses, modal verbs are quite unique. Unlike regular verbs, modal verbs do not change their form to indicate different tenses. They are used in their base form regardless of the time frame.

Modal verbs can refer to present and future time, but only some of them can refer to past time. Here is a table showing the modal verbs that can be used to refer to past time:

For example, “I could swim when I was younger” or “He would always help me with my homework.”

It’s important to note that when using modal verbs to refer to past time, the main verb in the sentence should be in the base form as well. For example, “I could have gone to the party, but I decided not to.”

In addition to the past time usage, here are some examples of how modal verbs can be used in different tenses:

Present: “You should eat more vegetables.”
Future: “We will have to leave early tomorrow.”
Perfect: “He must have forgotten his phone at home.”
Continuous: “They might be playing tennis right now.”

Overall, modal verbs are a versatile and useful tool in English grammar. By understanding how they can be used in different tenses, you can effectively communicate your intentions and convey meaning in your writing and speech.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some examples of modal verbs in English?

Modal verbs are used to express ability, possibility, necessity, and permission. Some examples of modal verbs in English include can, may, must, shall, will, could, might, should, and would.

How many modal verbs are there in English?

There are nine modal verbs in English: can, may, must, shall, will, could, might, should, and would.

What is the definition of modal verbs and how are they used?

Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that are used to express various meanings such as ability, possibility, necessity, and permission. They are followed by the base form of a verb and do not change their form based on the subject of the sentence. Modal verbs can also be used to make requests, give advice, and express opinions.

What is a good worksheet for practicing modal verbs?

There are many worksheets available online for practicing modal verbs. One good worksheet is the “Modal Verbs Practice” worksheet from Englishlinx.com. This worksheet includes exercises for practicing the different uses of modal verbs in English.

What are some common sentences using modal verbs?

Some common sentences using modal verbs include:

I can swim.
You should study for the test.
He may arrive late.
We must finish the project by Friday.
They could come to the party.

How do you pronounce modal verbs correctly?

Modal verbs are pronounced with stress on the first syllable. For example, can is pronounced as “kan,” may is pronounced as “may,” and must is pronounced as “must.”

thank you so much

Its amazing

Thank you. This would help me with my students.

Modal Verbs 1: Permission, Prohibition, Obligation, No obligation

When we want to express permission, prohibition (not allowing something), obligation or no obligation we use modal verbs.

Permission – can, may, could 'Can' is most often used to ask for or give permission but 'may' and 'could' are also possible even though they are not used as often as 'can'.

Can I borrow a pen? You can sit here, the seat is free. Could I open the window? May I ask a question?

Prohibition 'Can't' and 'mustn't' (must not) are used to show that something is prohibited (not allowed) You can't go into that restaurant without a tie. You can't drive in this country unless you are over eighteen. You mustn't use your phone in class. 'Can't' usually gives the idea of something that is against the rules. Mustn’t usually means that it is the speaker who is setting the rule.

Obligation 'Have to' and 'must' are both used to express obligation. There is a slight difference in the way that they are both used. 'Have to' shows that the obligation comes from someone else, not the speaker. This is usually referring to a rule or law. We have to be at the airport at least two hours before the flight. I have to work on Saturday. They have to wear their uniforms at school. 'Must' shows us that the obligation comes from the speaker. I must hand in my thesis by tomorrow. I really must call my parents.

Here is an example of the difference between 'have to' and 'must': My doctor said that I have to stop smoking or I'll risk serious problems. (I have no choice) I must stop smoking. It’s costing me too much money. (it’s my decision)

We use 'don't have to' to show that there is no obligation. You can do something if you want but it is not an obligation. You don't have to wear a tie to go to that restaurant but it would be nice. You didn't have to call for me. I could have got a taxi. Students don't have to wear uniforms to school.

Lesson by Tristan

Now choose the correct verb for these sentences:

1. You ___ come to the meeting but it would help us all if you’re there. don't have to mustn't
2. I can’t get a connection on my phone. ___ I borrow yours? can have to
3. The rules say that you ___ only invite one guest to the club. can have to
4. I ___ stay on for a few hours because I’d rather work late today than over the weekend. must have to
5. There’s a lot of noise coming from outside. ___ I close the window? Could Must
6. You ___ start saving money if you want to retire early. have to can
7. Did they tell you that you ___ come into this area. It’s restricted to staff only. can't don't have to
8. We ___ be there fifteen minutes before the concert starts. have to can

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5.6 Modal Auxiliaries

Learning objectives.

Define and identify modal auxiliaries.
Learn how and when to use modal auxiliaries.

We all need to express our moods and emotions, both in writing and in our everyday life. We do this by using modal auxiliaries .

Modal Auxiliaries

Modal auxiliaries are a type of helping verb that are used only with a main verb to help express its mood.

The following is the basic formula for using a modal auxiliary:

There are ten main modal auxiliaries in English.

Table 5.11 Modal Auxiliaries

Use the following format to form a yes-no question with a modal auxiliary:

Be aware of these four common errors when using modal auxiliaries:

Using an infinitive instead of a base verb after a modal

Incorrect: I can to move this heavy table.

Correct: I can move this heavy table.

Using a gerund instead of an infinitive or a base verb after a modal

Incorrect: I could moving to the United States.

Correct: I could move to the United States.

Using two modals in a row

Incorrect: I should must renew my passport.

Correct: I must renew my passport.

Correct : I should renew my passport.

Leaving out a modal

Incorrect: I renew my passport.

Edit the following paragraph by correcting the common modal auxiliary errors.

Modals and Present Perfect Verbs

In the previous section, we defined present perfect verb tense as describing a continuing situation or something that has just happened.

Subject (I and He), has or have (have and has), past participle (helped and helped)

Remember, when a sentence contains a modal auxiliary before the verb, the helping verb is always have .

Subject (I, He, He, He, and He), modal auxiliary (could, could, might, may, and should), have (have, have, have, have, and have), and past participle (helped, helped, helped, helped, and helped).

Be aware of the following common errors when using modal auxiliaries in the present perfect tense:

Using had instead of have

Incorrect: Jamie would had attended the party, but he was sick.

Correct: Jamie would have attended the party, but he was sick.

Leaving out have

Incorrect: Jamie would attended the party, but he was sick.

On a separate sheet of paper, complete the following sentences by changing the given verb form to a modal auxiliary in present perfect tense.

The man ________ (laugh).
The frogs ________ (croak).
My writing teacher ________ (smile).
The audience ________ (cheer) all night.
My best friend ________ (giggled).

Key Takeaways

The basic formula for using a modal auxiliary is

There are ten main modal auxiliaries in English: can , could , may , might , shall , should , will , would , must , and ought to .
The four common types of errors when using modals include the following: using an infinitive instead of a base verb after a modal, using a gerund instead of an infinitive or a base verb after a modal, using two modals in a row, and leaving out a modal.
In the present perfect tense, when a sentence has a modal auxiliary before the verb, the helping verb is always have .
The two common errors when using modals in the present perfect tense include using had instead of have and leaving out have .

Writing Application

On a separate sheet of paper, write ten original sentences using modal auxiliaries.

Creative Resources for ESL/EFL Teachers

Modal Verbs Conversation Questions, Use, and Examples

Practice modal verbs with conversation questions, watch video explanation and study example sentences.

What are modal verbs? According to Merriam-Webster , a modal verb is a verb (such as can, could, shall, should, ought to, will , or would ) that is usually used with another verb to express ideas such as possibility, necessity, and permission.

Modal verbs and their meanings.

I also recommend this wonderful video by Khan Academy . You can assign it as homework, it explains modal verbs in a very approachable and enjoyable way.

Practice modal verbs with Quizlet.

(Choose Flashcards in the Study mode in the bottom right corner, and click on the arrows above it to switch between front and back sides.)

Modal verbs conversation questions

1) Is there anything you can’t do and would like to learn?

2) What are the three things you can do best?

3) Name three things you may do this weekend.

4) Name three things you may not do at school.

5) Should students be allowed to eat during lessons? Why or why not?

6) Name two things you must do every day.

7) Name two things you mustn’t do at home.

8) What activities couldn’t you do last year because of the pandemic?

9) Name three things you could do when you were younger but can’t do anymore.

10) Is there anything you can do better than your parents?

Other resources

Conversation Questions Gerunds and Infinitives: ESL Speaking Activity

Conversation Questions Conditionals: ESL Speaking Activity

Conversation Questions: Present Perfect and Past Simple

Present Tenses Exercises: Present Simple and Continuous

Conversation Questions: Future Tenses

Conversation Starters: 30 Interesting Conversation Questions Not Only For ESL Students

These interesting and deep conversation starters are not only intended for ESL students but also for everyone who would like to start chatting with a stranger, neighbor, colleague, someone they fancy, partner, friend. No matter how well you know somebody, these deep conversation starters will help you connect with them…

15 Back to School Activities: Icebreakers, Warm-ups, and Energizers

Fun and easy-to-use back to school activities 1) Learn your students’ names New class, new faces, new names – a mess. This back to school activity has saved me multiple times. You can learn 30 new names in minutes, kids have fun and they painlessly learn new adjectives. Start by…

ESL Exam Speaking Picture Description and Questions

This ESL exam speaking task based on picture description and questions will help students prepare for a number of international exams, as well as local school leaving examinations – e.g. Matura. In many English exams including FCE students will have to talk about/describe pictures. The format varies, the examination paper…

Comments (3)

WOW!! Your content was very useful for me, thanks

is there a model must for obligation when i wrote the answer in my note book then cheaked my answer by turning my answer worng the answer is had to why ? please kindly cheak and give me answer what was that

Modals of obligation and prohibition

Posted: 05/10/2016
By: Joanna Kawrow
Category: Language learning

There are many rules in our lives, at work, at school, at home, in the public places, on the roads, etc., which have been established to ensure order and safety. We use modal verbs to express obligations and prohibitions, or lack of obligation.

Modal verbs have the following grammatical structure: Subject + Modal Verb + Basic Verb

Example: ”I must go to bed early tonight”.

And this is how we express prohibition and lack of obligation:

Be careful : there is a big difference in the meaning between ”mustn’t” and ”don’t have to”

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Modal verbs: Obligation, Prohibition and Advice

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Created on March 14, 2021

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Obligation, Prohibition and advice

Modal verbs

Modal verbs:

We use MUST and HAVE TO to express obligation

MUST shows us that the obligation comes from inside the speaker STRUCTURE: MUST + INFINITIVE

HAVE TO shows that the obligation comes from outside. This is usually refer to a rule or law. STRUCTURE: HAVE TO + INFINITIVE *Use do or does to make a question.

We use DON'T / DOESN'T HAVE TO or DON'T / DOESN'T NEED TO to show that there is no obligation. You can do something if you want but it is not an obligation. * It doesn't mean the same as MUSTN'T.

LACK OF OBLIGATION

We use SHOULD and OUGHT TO to express advice or make recommendations

STRUCTURE: SHOULD/SHOULDN'T + INFINITVE We can also use HAD BETTER to make our advice stronger, if you don't there would be some problem or danger.

We use CAN'T and MUSTN'T to show something is not allowed.

Prohibition

STRUCTURE: CAN'T/MUSTN'T + infinitive

PROHIBITION

A. Complete the sentence using a Modal Verb 1. When we were at school we ______wear a uniform. 2. We _________ go to the meeting. Why didn't you go? 3. I ______ wear glasses, I still can see perfectly well. 4. We went to bed right after dinner because we ____get up early the following day. 5. We ------ talk to each other because it was an exam.

B. Choose the correct option: 1. You SHOULD / SHOULDN'T / HAVE TO eat too many calories, or you'll get fat! 2. She DON'T HAVE TO / DOESN'T HAVE TO / MUST tidy up now. I'll do it later 3. My brother HAVE TO / HAS TO / DOESN'T HAVE TO wear a tie at his work. He is a lawyer. 4. You MUSTN'T / MUST smoke in this office. It's a rule. 5. We MUSTN'T / DON'T HAVE TO forget to set the alarms before we leave

C. Rewrite the sentences using the modal verbs given. 1. I think it would be a good idea for you to take a break. (should) 2. Students are allowed to buy cheap meals in the cafeteria. (can) 3. It's important that I remember to print out my essay. (must) D. Correct the underlined mistake. 1. Sally must go to bed early last night. 2. Students don't have to talk loudly in the library 3. Do we must hand in our homework today?

1. Try to give the best advice that you can for the following situations: I study at university. We have our final exams in two weeks. I'm very worried about my best friend. He is planning to cheat in the examination.s What should I do?

GIVE AND ADVICE

1. Try to give the best advice that you can for the following situations.My friends keep complaining that I spend too much time with my boyfriend/girlfriend. They say I never hang out with them anymore. I don't want to lose my friends, but at the same time, I want to see my boyfriend/ girlfriend as much as possible. What would you suggest I do?

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Can / could - exercises

May / might

Must / have to

Shall / should

Will / would

Mixed modals - exercises

Worksheets - handouts

Modal verbs

Worksheets - pdf exercises.

Can / Could - worksheet
Could - worksheets
Can / Could / Would - exercises
Can / could - worksheets
Can / can't / could / couldn't

--------may - might---------

May / might / must - worksheet
May / might - worksheets
May / might - worksheet
Can / could / may / might

---------must - have to--------

Must / mustn't / have to...
Must - worksheets
Must / have to / mustn't
Must / have to - worksheet
Must, mustn't and needn't
Can't / must - exercises

--------shall - should----

Shall - worksheets
Should - worksheets
Shall / should - printable exercises
Shall or will

--------will - would----

Would - worksheets
Will/ would - pdf exercises
Rather than - would rather pdf

--------mixed modals----

Mixed modals - pdf exercises
Can / must / should
Can / must / need / should
Modal verbs 1 - pdf exercises
Modal verbs 2 - pdf exercises
Modal verbs - worksheets
Can, can't, could, couldn't, must, mustn't
Modal verbs 1
Modal verbs 2
Modal verbs 3
Modal verbs - obligation
Ability and permission - worksheet
Modal verbs - pdf handout
Modal verbs - exercises
Modal verbs - printable exercises
Modal verbs - past
Modal verbs - past forms
Modals : English/Spanish worksheet
Modal auxiliary verbs - grammar

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Modals (1): necessity, obligation, prohibition and advice – B2 English Grammar Test

Grammar Tests for B2

1 Choose the correct option to complete the sentences.

1 You have to / ought to / mustn’t drive if you feel dizzy.

2 I’m so stressed. I don’t have to / need to / mustn’t relax.

3 You must / should / shouldn’t be over 18 to come to this gym.

4 It’s getting late. You needn’t / don’t have to / had better go to bed soon.

5 If you’ve got a headache you have to / ought to / needn’t lie down for a minute.

6 When my parents are out, I have to / mustn’t / should look after my little sister.

7 This reaction is completely normal. You should / needn’t / need to worry.

8 If you panic, you mustn’t / should / needn’t take a deep breath.

9 You must / don’t have to / have to print this form. You can email it to us.

2 need to

4 had better

5 ought to

6 have to

7 needn’t

9 don’t have to

2 Read the pairs of sentences and decide if they have a similar (S) or different (D) meaning. If different, change the modal verb in sentence B so that the meaning is the same.

1 A Wendy should chill out.

B Wendy ought to relax. …… S ……

2 A Calvin has to stay inside.

B Calvin doesn’t have to go outside. …………..

3 A You must remember your passport.

B You mustn’t forget your passport. …………..

4 A He’d better drink lots of water.

B He ought to stay hydrated. …………..

5 A I need to pass all my exams.

B I shouldn’t fail any of my exams. …………..

6 A We’ve got to get there early.

B We mustn’t get there late. …………..

2 D Calvin mustn’t go outside.

5 D I mustn’t fail any of my exams.

3 Rewrite the sentences with the words in brackets so that they mean the same.

1 I think it’s a good idea if we book a table.

…… We ought to book a table . …… (ought to)

2 You’re not allowed to feed the animals.

……………………………………………………. (mustn’t)

3 It isn’t necessary for Sandra to bring a racquet.

……………………………………………………. (needn’t)

4 It’s essential that we finish the project soon.

……………………………………………………. (have got to)

5 Getting some rest would be good for them.

……………………………………………………. (should)

6 It’s obligatory for visitors to wear a hat.

……………………………………………………. (must)

7 There’s no obligation for you to decide today.

……………………………………………………. (don’t have to)

8 It would be really bad if you missed this train.

……………………………………………………. (had better)

2 You mustn’t feed the animals.

3 Sandra needn’t bring a racquet.

4 We have/’ve got to finish the project soon.

5 They should get some rest.

6 Visitors must wear a hat.

7 You don’t have to decide today.

8 You had/’d better not miss this train.

4 Put a tick (✓) if the sentence is correct or a cross (✗) if it is incorrect. Correct the mistakes.

1 That colour doesn’t suit you. You should to try the red one. ✗

……That colour doesn’t suit you. You should try the red one. ……

2 Maybe we ought to call back later. ……

……………………………………………………

3 I’ll pick Noa up. You needn’t to worry. ……

4 You mustn’t touch any of the exhibits in the museum. ……

5 You’ve been working for ages. You should take a break. ……

6 The fridge was full of food so we needn’t go to the supermarket when we arrived. ……

7 I can’t go to the cinema tomorrow. I must to study. ……

8 Anna had better not lose that bracelet I lent her. ……

3 ✗ I’ll pick Noa up. You needn’t worry.

6 ✗ The fridge was full of food so we didn’t need to / didn’t have to go to the supermarket when we arrived.

7 ✗ I can’t go to the cinema tomorrow. I must study.

5 Complete the conversation with the words in the box. If the word is a regular verb, put it in the correct tense.

Abby: Sorry I missed your call yesterday. I 1 …… wasn’t feeling …… well.

Huw: Are you okay?

Abby: Yeah, but I 2 …………………… with a lot of headaches recently. Most mornings.

Huw: Maybe you 3 …………………… to see your doctor.

Abby: You’re right. I probably 4 …………………… make an appointment, but I think they’ll go away as soon as I’m done with this project.

Huw: When’s the deadline?

Abby: I 5 …………………… hand 6 …………………… in until next month, thankfully, so I’ve got plenty of time.

Huw: That’s good.

Abby: Yeah, but the last few months 7 …………………… crazy. I 8 …………………… never so much work in my life. Anyway, I had 9 …………………… run. I 10 …………………… get to the post office before it closes and pick something up.

Huw: No worries. Look 11 …………………… yourself!

2 have been waking up

4 should

5 don’t have to

7 have been

8 have/’ve (never) had

9 better

10 have to

Advanced English Grammar Test – Multiple-choice Test 33
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Modal verbs of obligation, prohibition and advice

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-Some exercises to practice modal verbs

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IMAGES

Modal Verbs of Obligation
Modals of OBLIGATION
Modals of OBLIGATION, Definition and Example Sentences
10 examples of modals, Definition and Example Sentences
Modal Verbs List and Using in English
9 Example Sentences and Definition with Modals of OBLIGATION

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اول ثانوي انجليزي- modal verbs of obligation and prohibition- عبدالله حجازي
Role-Playing with Modal Verbs: Advice in English Language
Modal Verbs for Expressing Obligation || English 9 || Quarter 1 Week 1
Mastering Modal Verbs: A Comprehensive Guide to Using Modal Verbs Correctly
Modal Verbs Quiz
Modal Auxaleries for Class XI

COMMENTS

Modal Verbs of Obligation
The four most common modal verbs of obligations are must, have to, should, and ought to. We use these modal verbs in any form for rules, laws, strong advice, and warm invitations. Learn the complete definition and examples of modal verbs of obligations. Then, answer the worksheet I whipped up and provided to test your understanding.
Unit 15 Modals
modal + base form of main verb = complete verb. 2. Contractions are common are in modals, such as "shouldn't" and "mustn't". However, "may" and "might" do not have a contraction form. It is wrong to write "mayn't" and "mightn't". Small children mayn't stay ( may not stay) alone at home in the United States.
Modal Verbs of Obligation
Modal Verbs of Obligation. We can use have to + infinitive, must + infinitive and should + infinitive to express obligation (something you have to do). Children have to go to school. I don't have to work on Sundays. You don't have to eat anything you don't like. I must study today.
Modals
Modal verbs (will, would, should, may, can, could, might, must) precede another verb. Modals do not have subject-verb agreement or take the infinitive "to" before the next verb. ... This use of modals hedges, or weakens, the certainty of a sentence. The stronger the modal, the stronger the possibility. Must is so strong that it is almost ...
Modals for Obligation: Understanding and Usage Guide
Introduction: English modal verbs can be used to express obligation. This article delves into the various modal verbs, such as must, have to, should, ought to, and need to, exploring their differences and usage. Gaining a better understanding of these verbs will improve your grasp of English grammar and enhance your communication skills.
Have to, must and should for obligation and advice
We use have to / must / should + infinitive to talk about obligation, things that are necessary to do, or to give advice about things that are a good idea to do. Mus t and have to are both used for obligation and are often quite similar. They are both followed by the infinitive. I must go now. / I have to go now.
The Writing Center
Grammatical Form. Modals are a special type of verbs; they are followed by the base form of verbs (e.g. I should go, she must see, he can swim ). In addition to the simple form of modals, there are also other forms to express: past time 1: modal + have + Past Participle (e.g., may have submitted) passive voice 2: modal + be + Past Participle (e ...
Modal Verbs of Obligation
Modal Verbs of Obligation In this section of the course, you'll learn everything you need to know about the two most important modal verbs of obligation. You'll start off by reviewing what a modal verb is and why it's different to a normal verb then you'll watch a grammar explanation video to understand how to use modals of obligation ...
Modal Verbs: Useful Rules, List and Examples in English
The most common modal verbs of possibility are "may," "might," "could," and "can.". Here are some examples: It may rain later today. The train might be delayed. She could be at home. Obligation. Modal verbs of obligation express whether you are required to do something or not.
Modal Verbs
The following are all modal verbs: can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, would. They provide additional information about the verb that follows them. Modal verbs are used to express ability, obligation, permission, possibility, make requests and offers, and give advice. They can have more than one meaning, which depends on the ...
Modal Verbs 1: Permission, Prohibition, Obligation, No obligation
Sat, 06/01/2013 - 05:19 — Krista B. Grammar. When we want to express permission, prohibition (not allowing something), obligation or no obligation we use modal verbs. Permission - can, may, could. 'Can' is most often used to ask for or give permission but 'may' and 'could' are also possible even though they are not used as often as 'can'.
5.6 Modal Auxiliaries
modal auxiliary. +. main verb. There are ten main modal auxiliaries in English: can, could, may, might, shall, should, will, would, must, and ought to. The four common types of errors when using modals include the following: using an infinitive instead of a base verb after a modal, using a gerund instead of an infinitive or a base verb after a ...
Modal verbs
Mustn't / don't have to. The negative forms mustn't and don't have to are completely different. Mustn't is used to express prohibition (an obligation not to do something), whereas don't have to is used to express an absence of obligation. (⇒ See Have to, must, should - obligation, prohibition, necessity, advice) You mustn't ...
Modal Verbs Conversation Questions, Use, and Examples
According to Merriam-Webster, a modal verb is a verb (such as can, could, shall, should, ought to, will, or would) that is usually used with another verb to express ideas such as possibility, necessity, and permission. Modal verbs and their meanings. She can speak play several musical instruments. They can work on the project now.
Modals of obligation and prohibition
There are many rules in our lives, at work, at school, at home, in the public places, on the roads, etc., which have been established to ensure order and safety. We use modal verbs to express obligations and prohibitions, or lack of obligation. Modal verbs have the following grammatical structure: Subject + Modal Verb + Basic Verb. Example ...
Essay On Modals of Obligation
Essay on Modals of Obligation_Fayaz Ahmed - Free download as PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or read online for free. Help pre-intermediate learners understand and use modals of obligation. Modal verbs are used to make an assessment, judgment or interpretation of what we are speaking or writing about.
Modal verbs: Obligation, Prohibition and Advice
Modal verbs. Modal verbs: +info. We use MUST and HAVE TO to express obligation. Obligation. MUST shows us that the obligation comes from inside the speaker STRUCTURE: MUST + INFINITIVE. MUST +info. HAVE TO shows that the obligation comes from outside. This is usually refer to a rule or law. STRUCTURE: HAVE TO + INFINITIVE *Use do or does to ...
Modal verbs
Modal verbs - worksheets. Can, can't, could, couldn't, must, mustn't. Modal verbs 1. Modal verbs 2. Modal verbs 3. Modal verbs - obligation. Ability and permission - worksheet. Modal verbs - pdf handout. Modal verbs - exercises.
Modals (1): necessity, obligation, prohibition and advice
1 You have to / ought to / mustn't drive if you feel dizzy.. 2 I'm so stressed.I don't have to / need to / mustn't relax.. 3 You must / should / shouldn't be over 18 to come to this gym.. 4 It's getting late.You needn't / don't have to / had better go to bed soon.. 5 If you've got a headache you have to / ought to / needn't lie down for a minute.
Modal Verbs Obligation Prohibition ESL Activities Games Worksheets
This free modal verbs of obligation worksheet helps to teach students how to express obligation with have to and has to. First, students write sentences about what David has to do today by looking at items on his desk and using verbs and nouns in a box to write sentences with has to. Afterwards, students write a short paragraph about what they ...
Modal verbs
It was so uncomfortable! 8 You forget to take your medicine. 9 We early because it was a holiday, so we slept till late. 10 You call me as soon as you arrived. I was very worried! Modal verbs - permission, obligation, prohibition, necessity. Can, could, must, should, ought to, have to, be allowed, be permitted. Grammar and exercises.
Modal verbs of obligation, prohibition and advice
-Some exercises to practice modal verbs Other contents: Modal verbs of obligation, modal verbs of prohibition, modal verbs of advice, modal verbs of lack of obligation, must, mustn't, don't have to/ doesn't have to, should/ shouldn't