essay with modal verbs about yourself

Essay Papers Writing Online

Tips for crafting a compelling and authentic personal essay.

Writing an essay about yourself can be a daunting task, but when done right, it can be a powerful tool to showcase who you are and what makes you unique. Whether you’re applying for college, a scholarship, or a job, a well-crafted essay can help you stand out from the crowd and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

When writing a personal essay, it’s important to strike a balance between being informative and engaging. You want to provide the reader with insight into your background, experiences, and goals, while also keeping them interested and invested in your story. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of writing a compelling essay about yourself, from brainstorming ideas to polishing your final draft.

Essential Tips for Crafting

When crafting a compelling essay about yourself, it is important to think about your audience and what message you want to convey. Here are some essential tips to help you create an engaging and authentic essay:

A Powerful Personal Essay

Writing a powerful personal essay is a way to express your unique voice and share your personal experiences with the world. By weaving together your thoughts, emotions, and reflections, you can create a compelling narrative that resonates with your audience. To craft a powerful personal essay, start by reflecting on your own experiences and exploring the themes that matter to you. Pay attention to the details and emotions that make your story come alive. Be honest and vulnerable in your writing, as authenticity is key to connecting with your readers. Additionally, consider the structure of your essay and how you can effectively organize your thoughts to engage your audience from beginning to end. By following these tips and staying true to your voice, you can create a powerful personal essay that leaves a lasting impact on your readers.

Choose a Unique Aspect

When writing an essay about yourself, it’s important to focus on a unique aspect of your personality or experiences that sets you apart from others. This could be a specific skill, talent, or life experience that has had a significant impact on your life. By choosing a unique aspect to highlight, you can make your essay more compelling and memorable to the reader. It’s important to showcase what makes you different and showcase your individuality in a way that will capture the reader’s attention.

of Your Personality

When writing about your personality, it’s important to showcase your unique traits and qualities. Describe what sets you apart from others, whether it’s your creativity, resilience, sense of humor, or compassion. Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate these characteristics and provide insight into who you are as a person.

Highlight your strengths and acknowledge your weaknesses – this shows self-awareness and honesty. Discuss how your personality has evolved over time and mention any experiences that have had a significant impact on shaping who you are today. Remember to be authentic and genuine in your portrayal of yourself as this will make your essay more compelling and engaging to the reader.

Reflect Deeply on

When writing an essay about yourself, it is crucial to take the time to reflect deeply on your life experiences, values, beliefs, and goals. Consider the events that have shaped you into the person you are today, both positive and negative. Think about your strengths and weaknesses, your passions and interests, and how they have influenced your decisions and actions. Reflecting on your personal journey will help you uncover meaningful insights that can make your essay more compelling and authentic.

Your Life Experiences

When it comes to writing an essay about yourself, one of the most compelling aspects to focus on is your life experiences. These experiences shape who you are and provide unique insights into your character. Reflect on significant moments, challenges you’ve overcome, or memorable events that have had a lasting impact on your life.

• Consider discussing pivotal moments that have influenced your beliefs and values.
• Share personal anecdotes that highlight your strengths and resilience.
• Explore how your life experiences have shaped your goals, aspirations, and ambitions.

By sharing your life experiences in your essay, you can showcase your individuality and demonstrate what sets you apart from others. Be genuine, reflective, and honest in recounting the events that have shaped your journey and contributed to the person you are today.

Create a Compelling

When crafting an essay about yourself, it is essential to create a compelling narrative that captures the attention of the reader from the very beginning. Start by brainstorming unique and engaging personal experiences or qualities that you want to highlight in your essay. Consider including vivid anecdotes, insightful reflections, and impactful moments that showcase your character and achievements. Remember to be authentic and sincere in your writing, as this will resonate with your audience and make your essay more relatable. By creating a compelling narrative, you can effectively communicate your story and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Narrative Structure

The narrative structure is crucial when writing an essay about yourself. It helps to create a compelling and engaging story that showcases your unique qualities and experiences. Start by introducing the main theme or message you want to convey in your essay. Then, build a coherent storyline that highlights significant events or moments in your life. Use descriptive language and vivid details to bring your story to life and make it more relatable to the readers. Include a clear beginning, middle, and end to ensure that your essay follows a logical progression and captivates the audience throughout.

Emphasize the lessons you’ve learned from your experiences and how they have shaped your character and outlook on life. Connect these insights to your personal growth and development, demonstrating your resilience, determination, and self-awareness. End your essay on a reflective note, highlighting the impact of your journey on who you are today and what you aspire to achieve in the future. By following a strong narrative structure, you can craft a captivating essay that showcases your authenticity and leaves a lasting impression on the readers.

Highlight Your

When writing an essay about yourself, it is essential to highlight your unique qualities and experiences that set you apart from others. Consider including personal anecdotes, achievements, strengths, and challenges that have shaped your identity. Focus on showcasing your authenticity and individuality to make your essay compelling and engaging.

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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

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”.

• 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 

• 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.

• 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 ↵

Building Academic Writing Skills Copyright © 2022 by Cui, Lin is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Course: Grammar   >   Unit 2

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Modal verbs

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StoryLearning

Learn A Language Through Stories

A Comprehensive Guide To The 9+ Modal Verbs In English

You can learn English. But if you want to learn it fluently, you must know your modal verbs. I just used two there – “can” and “must”. But there are 9 modal verbs (and 4 semi-modal verbs) in English to master.

Learning how to use these modal verbs in English is crucial because they are super common and have the power to change the meaning of sentences. This will help you express your thoughts with more precision.

There are several modal verbs and there are also semi-modal verbs. In this post, I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about them.

Table of Contents

What are modal verbs in english.

Will, would, can, could, may, might, must, should, shall – these are all English modal verbs. They are auxiliary verbs that express modalities. 

To keep things simple, they are verbs that we need to express necessity, possibility, probability, obligation, ability, permission, and other modalities.

Here are some quick example sentences for you which all contain modal verbs:

• They will call you as soon as I arrive.
• I would go if I were you.
• He can swim very fast.
• I could see the stars from my window last night.
• You may leave the room if you wish.
• It might rain later today.
• You must wear a helmet when riding a bicycle.
• She should try to eat healthier food.
• We shall overcome these challenges together.

Here’s a table that summarises the affirmative, negative and question form of each verb.

As you can see, modal verbs don't change form, so you’ll never find a modal verb ending in -s, -ing, or -ed. You may have also noticed that:

• They are always followed by a base form of another verb (e.g. I can swim , NOT *I can to swim ).
• The negative is formed by adding not (e.g. I can not swim , NOT *I don’t can to swim ).
• The question is formed by inverting the subject and the verb (e.g. May I help you? NOT * Do I may help you? )
• They are never preceded by auxiliary verbs like do, have, or be.

Let’s now examine each of them individually to see how they work.

Modal Verbs English In Action

“Can” is one of the most versatile and commonly used modal verbs in English. It’s used to express ability, possibility, and permission. Have a look at these examples.

Can For Ability

• I can speak three languages. (=I’m able to speak three languages)
• She can sing very well.
• Can he cook great food?

Can For Possibility

• It can get very cold in the desert at night. (=It is possible that it gets cold).
• You can find some great deals if you shop during the sales season.
• There can be heavy traffic on the highways during holiday weekends.

We can also use “can” to question possibility. Here’s an example:

• “Well, how can you learn English if don't practise it?” (=I don’t think it’s possible that you are learning English because you never practise it)

We can also use “can” to express strong negative possibility. 

• John: “Have you heard the news? Jenny and Mark have broken up!”
• Mary: “No way! That can’t be true!”

Can For Permission And Requests

You can use “can” to ask for, give, or deny permission.

• Can I use your laptop for a moment? (=Is it okay if I use your laptop?) 
• You cannot park here. (=You’re not allowed to park here) 
• Sure, you can use my car tonight if you need it. (= I give you permission to use my car tonight)

Note: the negative of “can” is “can’t” (a contraction ) or “cannot.” 

“Could” is the past tense form of “can,” but we can also use it to express possibility, past ability, or make polite requests.

Could For Past Ability

• When I was younger, I could run a mile in six minutes.
• When I was a kid, I could climb the tallest trees in our neighbourhood.
• I could solve complex math problems in no time when I was in high school.

Could For Possibility

• It could rain later, so bring an umbrella just in case.
• You could try the new seafood restaurant; I've heard it's excellent.
• Given her recent performances, she could be the one to win the championship this year.

Could For Polite Requests

“Could” is normally more formal than “can” when we use it for requests.

• Could you please help me with this?
• Could I see your driving licence, please?
• Could you please give me more information?

Could For Past Possibility

Sometimes we need to talk about something we think is possible, but in the past. In this case, we use could + have + past participle . Like this:

• She could have won the race if she hadn't injured her ankle.
• I could have become a great chef if I had listened to my dad’s advice.
• I could have finished the project on time, but I underestimated how long it would take.

3. & 4. May & Might

Both “may” and “might” can be used to express weak possibility, ask for permission, or make polite requests. Is there a difference between the two? There is. In 101 Grammar Questions , Scott Thornbury, an English teacher and linguist, says: 

If two grammar items are interchangeable, and occur in the same contexts, chances are that one of them will become ‘extinct’. Which is not the case with may and might.  Scott Thornbury, 101 Grammar Questions

Let’s clarify things a little. 

In most cases, “may” and “might” are interchangeable, so you can use one or the other without any significant difference in meaning.

Here are some examples of when this is the case.

May And Might For Weak Possibility

• It may / might rain tomorrow.
• She may / might be very tired, that’s why she doesn’t want to come over tonight.
• I may / might be able to tell you a bit more about it soon.

No real difference here. 

The same is true when we use “may” / “might” for permission and requests.

May And Might For Requests

• May / might I leave the room for a moment?
• May / might I ask a question about the procedure?
• Ladies and gentlemen, may / might I have your attention, please?

Okay, some say that “may” is more formal than “might,” while “might” is more neutral. However, some argue the opposite! In my experience, when making a polite, formal request, people often use “may,” not “might.”

But the real main differences are the following:

• For unreal conditions, we use “might.” 

Example: If I had more money, I might buy a new house.

• For questions about probability, we use “might.”

Example: Might it get cold at night? (=Is it possible that it’ll get cold?)

• When you give or deny permission, use “may.”

Example: 

• You may leave now. (=You’re allowed to leave now)
• You may not eat food in the room.
• You may start writing now.
• When you need to express wishes and hopes, use “may.”

Example: May the force be with you!

Note: The negative form of “may” is “may not” (not mayn’t). The negative form of “might” can be “might not” or “mightn’t”.

You should know about this! “Should” is a super common English modal verb that we use to express advice, expectation, or obligation. 

Should For Advice And Suggestions

• You should drink plenty of water every day to stay hydrated. (I advise you to drink plenty of water)
• You should check the weather forecast before going hiking tomorrow.
• She should consider updating her resume to include her latest experiences.

We can also use it to talk about what we think is ideal.

• There should be more parks in this town. (=I think having more parks would be ideal)
• The government should lower taxes. 
• More people should go vegan.

We can also use it to talk about past ideal situations, actions or events. In this case, we use should + have + past participle.

Some examples:

• You should have been more careful! 
• They should have called before going there.
• He should have paid more attention while he was driving.

Should For Expectations

• The train should arrive by 5 pm. (=I expect the train to arrive by 5 pm)
• The package should be delivered by tomorrow morning.
• The meeting should last about two hours.

Sometimes we use “should” in second conditional sentences (hypothetical conditional). This is, however, a formal way to express condition. (For more on conditionals, check out my guide to the English conditional tense ).

• If you should see the president, tell him to call me, please.
• If you should have any questions, please notify us by the end of the week.
• If you should wish to use the suite, feel free to use the interphone to let us know.

In these cases, we often use “should you” instead of “if you should”. 

• Should you see the president, tell him to call me, please.
• Should you have any questions, please notify us by the end of the week.
• Should you wish to use the suite, feel free to use the interphone to let us know.

“Must” is another common modal verb in English. We use it to express strong obligation, strong necessity, prohibition, and deduction. 

Let’s see it in action.

Must For Strong Obligation And Necessity

• You must wear a seatbelt while driving for your own safety.
• We must finish this project by the deadline to meet our client's expectations.
• Doctors must keep patient information confidential.

If you want to express strong obligation or necessity in the past, don’t use “must” but “had to.”

Here are some examples:

• I had to study late into the night to prepare for the exam.
• She had to leave the party early to catch her flight.
• We had to wear uniforms to school every day.

But what about expressing strong obligation or necessity in the future? In that case, we prefer using “will have to.”

• You’ll have to renew your passport before you can travel internationally.
• She’ll have to submit her thesis by next month to graduate on time.
• I’ll have to wake up early tomorrow to catch the first train to Rome.

What if there’s no obligation or necessity? Should we use “mustn’t”? No, in that case, we use “don’t have to” or “don’t need to”.

• You don't have to bring any food to the party; everything is provided. (=It’s not necessary to bring food).
• She doesn't need to come to the meeting if she's too busy.
• We don't have to wear formal attire to the event; it's quite casual.

You can also use “mustn’t,” but the meaning of the sentence changes completely. Compare these two sentences:

• You don't have to bring any food to the party; everything is provided.
• You mustn’t bring any food to the party; everything is provided.

The first sentence means that bringing food is optional. There's no obligation for you to bring anything because the host has already arranged for all the food.

In contrast, “You mustn’t bring any food to the party; everything is provided” carries a strong prohibition. It means you’re explicitly forbidden from bringing food. The use of “mustn’t” indicates a strict rule or a necessity to avoid doing something.

This is also why we often use “must not” to express prohibition to talk about rules and laws. 

Must For Prohibition

You may have seen “must not” in public signs that tell you what you’re not allowed to do. Here are some example sentences:

• You mustn't smoke in this area; it's a smoke-free zone.
• Children mustn't play near the construction site for their own safety.
• Visitors mustn't touch the exhibits in the museum.

Must For Deductions

Let’s first define what a deduction is. The Oxford Dictionary says that a deduction is “the process of using information you have in order to understand a particular situation or to find the answer to a problem”.

Let’s say you’re playing a pub quiz game and one of the questions is: 

“How many people live in Australia?” 

• 10 million 
• Around 25 million
• Over 70 million

You don't know the exact number, but you remember reading that Australia's population is smaller than the Italian one, which counts around 65 million people. 

So you say, “It must be B, around 25 million.” (=you’re making a deduction based on what you know)

Here are some other example sentences:

• The library is completely silent. Everyone inside must be focusing on their studies.
• She knows all the answers in class. She must study a lot at home.
• He’s so young. He must be in his 20s.

Do you need to make a deduction in the past? Easy: use must + have + past participle. Like this:

• The streets are wet this morning. It must have rained last night.
• The vase is broken. The cat must have knocked it over.
• They knew everything about us. They must have done their research.

How often have you seen this verb? Probably millions of times. We often use it to form the English future tense but we also use it for requests, invitations, commands, disapproval, and habitual events.

Will For Invitations And Requests

You can use “will” to invite someone to do something or make requests:

• Will you join us for dinner tonight?
• Will you help me move this weekend?
• Will you please turn down the music?

Will For Orders

“Will” is sometimes used to give orders:

• Will you stop it, please!
• Will you please sit down!
• Will you put that away immediately!

Will For General Truth

We use “will” to talk about something we think is generally true:

• It will always be hard to learn a language without reading or listening.
• Some people will never learn what it means to be poor.
• Italy will always be a beautiful country.

Will For Habitual Actions

We use will to refer to actions and behavior that happen often:

Every time we go camping, Jack will insist on setting up the tent by himself. He ‘ll struggle with the poles for a while and then he ‘ll get frustrated. Eventually, he ‘ll ask for help, but only after he's tried every possible way to do it alone. It's the same routine every trip.

When we talk about repeated behaviour we dislike, we often use “will” too. Here’s an example:

• She will take my books without asking. It really annoys me! 

“Would” is the past form of “will.” But we don’t use it only to talk about the past; we also use it to make polite requests, soften what we say, and make us sound less direct. 

Let’s have a look at the uses of would.

Would For Past Actions And Events

We use “would” to talk about actions and events we happened habitually in the past. Here’s an example paragraph:

Every summer, we would spend a month at my grandparents' house by the lake. In the mornings, my grandfather would take us fishing, and in the evenings, my grandmother would cook the day's catch for dinner. Those were some of the happiest days of my childhood.

IMPORTANT: We don’t use “would” for past habitual states. Instead, we use “used to.” Some examples:

• I used to be a great student in school. 
• I used to live in the city back in 2001.
• I used to love horror movies as a teenager.

Would For Polite Requests

This is a very common use of would.

• Would you like some coffee?
• Would you have dinner with me on Friday?
• Would you mind opening the window?

Would For Imaginary Situations

Would is used in second, third and mixed conditional sentences to talk about the result of an event that we imagine.

• If I had a million dollars, I would travel around the world.
• If he had come earlier, we wouldn’t be in this situation now.
• If she had studied harder, she would have passed the exam.

Would For Future Events In The Past

We use “would” to talk about the future in the past:

• When I was 13, I thought that in years to come I would be really rich.
• When she divorced, she was sure she would never find love anymore.
• When they moved to the city, they believed they would eventually return to their hometown.

Would For Wishes

We often use “would” to say what we want to happen. In this case, the structure that we use is “ wish (that) somebody/something would do something .” 

• I wish you'd stop leaving your things all over the house.
• I wish you'd come visit me this weekend.
• I wish you'd consider my feelings before making decisions.

Would For Uncertain Opinions

There are times when we want to give opinions but we’re not certain about them. In those instances, we use “would” to sound less direct:

• I'd say he was about fifty.
• I would think that the restaurant is quite expensive given its location.
• I'd guess she's probably already left for the day.

Would For Advice

This use of “would” is quite common: 

• I would suggest trying the new software update to fix the issue.
• I would recommend booking your flights early to get the best deals.
• I wouldn’t go if I were you.

“Shall” is most used in British English but it’s becoming old-fashioned. It’s still a modal verb so I shall include it in this post. See what I did there?

Shall For Predictions

Although we almost always prefer “will,” “shall” can be used to make predictions (only with “I” and “we” as the subject of the sentence)

• I shall be in the US next month.

Shall For Advice, Offers And Requests

“Shall” is used in questions with “I” and “we” for making offers or suggestions or asking for advice.

• Shall I open the window?
• Shall we go out for dinner tonight?
• What shall we do about the situation?

The 4 Semi-Modal Verbs

I’ve been talking about modal verbs but did you know that in English there are also semi-modals? These are verbs that sometimes act like English modal verbs while other times are like many other verbs.

The semi-modals are:

Here’s a table to show you how they’re formed.

Let’s have a look at them individually.

We use “used to” to say that something happened continuously or frequently during a period in the past.

• When I was a child, I used to go fishing with my grandfather every summer.
• She used to be a professional athlete before her injury.
• Back in 1990, we used to have a family gathering every weekend.

The negative form is usually “didn’t use to”, but in British English this is quite informal and is not usually used in writing.

A couple of things to note:

• Did you use to like rock music when you were a teenager?
• I didn’t use to smoke.

“Ought to” and “should” are similar. “Should,” however,  is more common and less formal than “ought to.” 

Ought To For Advice

“Ought to” is used to say what is the right thing to do or give advice. It’s similar to “should”. Here are some examples:

• You ought to apologize for what happened.
• He ought to pay more attention in class.
• We ought to save money for our future expenses.

A couple of things to keep in mind:

1. We don’t normally start questions beginning with “ought to”. This is rare and very formal. Instead, we normally start questions with “Do you think…” or “Should”:

Like this: 

• “Do you think I ought to apologise?”
• “Should I apologise?”

2. The past of “ought to” is formed by using “ought to have”:

• You ought to have checked the weather before leaving. (But you didn’t)
• She ought to have informed us about her delay.
• They ought to have apologized for their mistake.

Ought To For Expectations

“Ought to” is used to say what you expect or would like to happen.

• The meeting ought to finish by 5 PM.
• He ought to call us once he arrives.
• The repairs ought to be completed by next week.

“Dare” means to be brave enough to do something. Here are some examples:

• She dared to speak out against injustice.
• He wouldn't dare question the decision.
• Do you dare to take the challenge?

The negative form is made by using “do” but it can also be made without it (that’s why “dare” is a semi-modal verb):

• She didn't dare to ask for a raise.
• He daren’t confront his boss.
• They don't dare to go out at night.

The same is true for questions:

• Do you dare to jump from the bridge?
• Dare she express her true feelings?
• Does he dare to disagree with the committee?

We use the negative form of “need” as a semi-modal to show no obligation.

• You needn't worry about the details because everything is taken care of.
• She needn't buy a new dress for the occasion.
• They needn't come to the meeting if they're too busy.

If you want to express no obligation in the past, use “didn’t need to”

• You didn't need to worry about the details because everything was taken care of.
• She didn't need to buy a new dress for the occasion.
• They didn't need to come to the meeting if they were too busy.

Mastering Modal Verbs English

So, here you are! You've reached the end of another grammar guide. I hope you found it useful!

You have seen many examples of English (semi-) modal verbs. What’s the best thing to do now to learn them? 

A great way to do that is to try to notice modal verbs in English while watching a movie in English , listening to music, reading books in English (or English magazines or blogs in English ), or conversing in English . 

This is how you will reinforce and consolidate everything you have learned in this grammar guide. Learn them in context.

And why not use the StoryLearning method to master those modal verbs too?

You’ll meet plenty of modal verbs in engaging short stories in English that will help you learn and assimilate them.

I think that’s something you could, should, and must do!

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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.”

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Modal Verbs – Uses, Examples & 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.

When you ask someone, “Can I go out?” you might get a sarcastic “You can, but you may not.” response. That’s because “can” and “may” are modal verbs that suggest different meanings. My dad used to drive me crazy as a kid with remarks like that.

Modal verbs are a type of verb found before the main verb. Keep reading to learn modal verbs’ definitions and uses. You’ll also see how to correctly use them in sentences because I’ve got a ton of examples to share with you.

What is a Modal Verb?

Modal verbs are verbs that express advice, capability, proposals, or hypothetical conditions. These verbs are different from normal verbs, such as tell, think, and reuse.

This type of verb can be found before an action verb to give it an additional meaning. As auxiliary verbs, modal verbs cannot stand independently to complete a sentence.

Here’s an example of how a modal verb gives shades of meaning to a sentence.

• Trina and Joan play the piano.

Trina and Joan might play the piano.

Another verb always follows modal verbs in base form. Remember not to conjugate the verb. For example:

• Incorrect: She can plays the piano.

Correct: She can play the piano.

What are the 9 Modal Verbs?

The nine modal verbs with modal meanings are:

Other modal verbs you can use are ought to, need to, have to, and might as well. We can use these modals to express obligation, permission, and suggestion,

What are the 4 Main Types of Modals?

Modal verbs can be divided into four main types.

Modals of Deduction

Modals of deduction are also known as modals of probability or certainty. These verbs help the speaker show that they are confident or not of something. The primary modals of deduction are must, might, may, and could. For example:

• The students must be practicing right now.
• I may not be here for a long time.

Modals of Ability

Modals of ability show one’s ability or lack thereof. The main ability modal verbs are can, cannot, be able to, and could. For example:

• She’s been able to drive a truck since she was sixteen.
• He cannot understand English.

Modals of Requests, Offers, and Permission

Modal verbs of requests, offers, and permission help the speaker inquire about permission. The modals in this category are can, could, and may. For example:

• May I go to the bathroom?

Modals of Advice, Obligation, and Prohibition

This type of modal verb helps say something important or not. You can also use them to make suggestions and give advice. These modals include have to, must, can, and cannot. For example:

• You must do all your homework before you go out.
• I think we can park in this spot.

What’s the Difference Between Modal and Auxiliary Verbs?

A helper verb or auxiliary verb is a type of verb that adds grammatical meaning to clauses’ meanings. You can use these verbs to show modality, tense, voice, and more. That means modal verbs are only a type of auxiliary verbs. For example:

• I should go back to sleep.

In this sentence, should adds grammatical functions to the sentence by showing obligation. Other modal verbs can be used to show willingness, certainty, necessity, ability, permission, advice, and possibility.

How Do We Use Modals?

There are many ways we can use modal verbs. Follow these formulas when constructing your sentences.

Can, Could, Be Able To

Use these modal verbs to show a subject’s ability or lack of ability. Remember to add not for the negative form.

To show the present and future tense, follow these structures.

• Can/can’t + base form

I can’t go to the mall later. (future)

Gina can sing well. (present)

• Am/is/are/will be + able to + base form.

She is able to speak Italian. (present)

My friends will be able to attend the seminar. (future)

• Am not/isn’t/won’t be + able to + base form.

Freddie won’t be able to buy the new toy. (future)

The past form of modal verbs showing ability follows this verb structure. Note that you can also use could for an action happening over a period of time.

• Could/Couldn’t + base form of verbs

I could fly kites when I was a kid. (positive form)

I couldn’t reach the ceiling when I was young. (negative form)

The modal verb can can also be used to express permission or request permission. Here are the most common structures.

• Can + subject + base form (Note that this structure is used to request for permission in informal situations. Do not use this in formal situations).

Can you buy me the new album?

• Can/Can’t + base form

You can borrow my car.

Follow this structure when making a polite suggestion.

• Could + base form

You could change your hairstyle.

The family could visit the castle tomorrow.

Modal verbs can also express the possibility and impossibility of something using this construction.

• Can/Can’t/Could/Couldn’t + base form

You can arrive at the venue early if you leave now.

Like can and could, may and might can show the possibility or negative impossibility of something.

• may/might + base form

It might be sunny tomorrow.

Mike might attend the party tomorrow night.

• May not/might nor + base form

The Rooneys may not go to Canada this Christmas.

Follow this verb combination to make a polite suggestion.

• May + subject + verb’s base form.

May I excuse myself?

The modal verb may is useful when giving formal permission or prohibition.

• May/may not + base form

You may open your notes while answering the test.

Use may as well or might as well to create a suggestion for the last resort.

• May/might as well + base form

The class may as well skip the examination.

Must, Have to, Need to, Needn’t, Don’t Have To

These modal verbs usually show necessity or requirement. Have to shows external obligation because the obligation comes from outside the speaker. The same is true with must and need to. Here are some ways to use them.

• must/need to/have to/ + base form (for present and future tenses).

One must wear comfortable shoes for a successful hike.

They need to download the application to answer the test.

You have to light a candle for her tonight.

• Had to/needed to + base form of the verb (past tense).

She needed a break from her student government duties.

I had to go to the gym last weekend.

Notice how must cannot be expressed in past tense sentences.

When trying to show that you are almost sure about something, follow this modal and main verb combination.

• Must + base form of the verb.

Your parents are singers, so your voice must be excellent.

Use this formula when persuading someone.

• Must/have to + base form

You must buy this bag. It’s spacious and perfect for school.

You have to listen to their music now.

Follow this structure when prohibiting someone.

• Must not + base form

You must not drink and drive.

Shall, Should, Ought To

The modal verb shall is ideal for giving assistance or respectful suggestions. You can use it when you are certain of a positive answer

• Shall + subject + verb’s base form

Shall we dance?

If you’re not sure of a positive answer, the correct verb to use should. Below is the proper construction.

• Should + subject + root verb

Should I ask my mother about it?

Use shall in formal or legal situations. These sentences usually have a passive voice.

• Shall + be + past participle.

The plaintiff shall be permitted to talk.

Should is ideal for making predictions or showing expectations about something. These sentences are also in passive voice.

• should/shouldn’t + base form

This book should be finished next week.

You shouldn’t be worried. Turbulence isn’t dangerous.

Use should when giving advice. Here’s the correct structure with some common examples.

• Should + base form

The manager should attend meetings on time.

You should submit your paper on time.

Ought to shows a sense of obligation like should .

• Ought to + base form

Katy ought to have her teeth checked this week.

Will and Would

Will is a modal verb used to show the simple future tense.

• Will/won’t + base form

I will pick you up later.

You can even use will and would to request something.

• Will/Would + you + base form

Will you open the door for me?

Would you care if I borrowed your phone?

Would is a modal verb that expresses habitual past action.

• Would/Would not + base form of the verb

When I was seven, we would always eat breakfast at his restaurant.

Using Modal Verbs in Sentences

You can use modals in the future and present time, showing different verb tenses to express hypotheticals and general events. But remember that not all modals can refer to a past situation.

Present Tenses

Here’s how to express verb phrases with modals in different present tenses.

Simple Present Tense

The simple present tense is the easiest. Just place the modal verb before the main verb, then use the base form of the verb. For example:

• I can eat that entire tub of ice cream.

When asking a question in the simple present tense, write the modal verb, subject, then the root verb. For example:

• Can I eat an entire tub of ice cream?

Present Continuous

The present continuous tense shows action in progress or habitual action. Write the modal verb, be, and the -ing form of the verb. For example:

• I should be eating an entire tub of ice cream.

Present Perfect Continuous

This verb tense helps you express something that started happening in the past and continues in the present. But its grammatical function changes because there’s a modal verb before it.

The present perfect continuous tense requires a modal verb, “have been,” and the -ing verb form. For example:

• I should have been eating ice cream.

In this sentence, should have been expresses what one thinks should have occurred in the past but did not occur.

Past Tenses and Present Perfect

Not all modal verbs can be expressed in the past tense, especially when you want to describe a hypothetical situation. The general rule is that can and will have simple past forms.

Simple Past

Conjugate can and will into their past forms: could and would. Have to become had to, while need to becomes needed to. But other modal verbs should not be used in past tense sentences. As usual, the formula is the modal verb plus the root verb. For example:

• In eighth grade, I could not submit my English project on time.
• I was at the department store because I needed to buy art materials.

Past Continuous

The past continuous or past progressive tense expresses an ongoing action happening at a certain point in the past. As with simple past, past continuous only uses could and would. After the modal verb, write have and the past participle of the verb. For example:

• I could be enjoying the sunset in Santorini right now.

In this sentence, could be is used to express something untrue or hypothetical.

Present Perfect

The present perfect tense is another verb tense that uses past actions related to the present. It can also show an action continuing into the present. Use have and the past participle instead of the bare infinitive of the main verb.

Use the modal verb have even if the subject is third-person. For example:

• I must have forgotten the time.

In this sentence, must have does not express something essential. Instead, must have is used when we feel sure about what happened.

If you are using the modal verb can, transform it into the past tense, could. For example:

• I could have gotten into Brown if I did more extra-curricular activities.

In this sentence, could have means something you had the ability to perform in the past but failed or didn’t do.

Future Tense

The simple future tense is relatively easy to use with modals. That’s because most of them already use will. You can also use should, shall, and can as alternatives. All you need to do is use the modal verb and then the base form of the verb. For example:

• We can eat ice cream tomorrow.

Other Rules for Using Modals

Modals are more straightforward than you think. Remember these four rules when using modal verbs.

Constructing Verb Phrases

As seen in the structures above, modal verbs always come first in verb phrases. Then, they are followed by bare infinitives. For example:

A few years ago, my family and I would go to the park every weekend.

Lina spent three years in Paris and two years in Florence. She must be good at French and Italian.

Remember that the bare infinitive does not include the word to. For example:

• Incorrect: Nora might to be with us this weekend.

Correct: Nora might be with us this weekend.

Do not use to be as the full infinitive after the words might, should, will, may, or can. The correct term to use is be. That means you can also say, “Nora will be with us this weekend,” “Nora should be with us this weekend,” or “Nora can be with us this weekend.”

Don’t Add -s, -ed, or -ing to Modals

Try to think of modal verbs as the linking verb is. Don’t change them into the present, future, or past form. Modal verbs do not require these suffixes to show a verb tense. For example:

• Incorrect: I canned climb trees when I was young.

Correct: I could climb trees when I was young.

Negative and Interrogative Forms

Like other auxiliaries, modal verbs can be expressed in interrogative and negative forms. I would add the word not after the modal verb for negative sentences. For example:

• You must not go inside.

For interrogative sentences, the formula is modal verb + subject + base form.

• Will she go with us?

Modal Verbs in a Nutshell

The English language is composed of several types of verbs, like Irregular verbs, regular verbs, copular verbs, dynamic verbs, and modal verbs. And you’ve probably seen modal verbs hundreds of times without knowing what they are.

Remember that modal verbs express advice, abilities, possibility, permission, or special conditions. When writing verb phrases, put the modal verbs first, then the bare infinitive.

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English Quarter 2 Module 4 Argumentative Texts Modal Verbs and Modal Adverbs (1)

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Modal Verbs

Modal verbs are a very important part of speech, they help to ask for permission and when making requests learn more about the different uses of modal verbs in english.

There are lots of ways to communicate thoughts and ideas while talking. Depending on the intention of these ideas, many different words or groups of words can be used to express what a person wants to say. One of these groups of words is the modal verbs .

The modal verbs in English are very particular, they share some characteristics that make them unique, but all of them have the same principle in common: they talk about modality , which is the attitude the speaker has about the situation he or she is describing. This means that by using the modal verbs, a person is able to communicate different claims while stating the commitment they have to those claims.

The modal verbs are :

can / could / might /will

would / shall / should / must

Uses of the modal verbs in English

In English, the modal verbs are used to express ability, possibility, permission or obligation . Each one of the modal verbs can be used to express one or more of these modalities. They can also be used to form the future tense in English and to make conditional sentences .

One of the particularities of the modal verbs is that they don’t work by themselves, on the contrary, they have to be accompanied by another verb in order to make sense. The main function of the modal verbs is to modify another verb to fit one of the aforementioned modalities.

When using the modal verbs, the infinitive “to” shouldn’t be written in the sentence, and the second verb will always go after the modal that is being used.

How to use modal verbs in English

Each one of the modal verbs has its own use and meaning in English. Most of the time, each modal verb can have more than one use and in these cases, their meanings can vary.

The verb “can” is used to express ability, possibility, to make a request or to ask for permission , and it can even be used to make an offer or a suggestion. Additionally, in its negative form, “ can’t” or “cannot” , it can be used to express inability or impossibility.

Examples of the modal verb “can”:

Can you come home early today? Can you help me? I can call you later. Elliot can’t fix the phone. Cowy and Lisa can jump very high. Billy can play the piano since he was 6 years old. Lisa can come early if you want, she doesn’t have homework today.

This verb has many different possible uses. It can be used to talk about ability and permission in the past. Also, just like the modal verb “can”, the modal verb “could” can be used to make questions, requests, suggestions or offers , but in a more polite way. It can also be used to talk about possibilities, but not as strong possibility that the one expressed with “can”. Its negative form is “ couldn’t ”.

Examples of the modal verb “could”:

I could go to the market with you if you’d like. Could you pass me the salt, please? Cowy was free at the moment, so she could go to the movies with her. Could I go play with Lisa? I couldn’t jump very high when I was little. It could rain tomorrow.

The use of “may” as a modal verb is to talk about permission in the present, to make suggestions and to talk about possibilities as well. However, may is much more polite than “can” or “could”. Its negative form, “ may not ”, is often used to talk about not giving permission.

Examples of modal verb “may”:

May I go to the toilet, please? Mary may go to your party later. May I help you with anything? I can’t help you with the homework, but your brother may be able to. It may a good idea to go to school early. Elliot may not stay out of home late.

The modal verb “might” is used to express possibility in the present or in the future . It can be used as the verb “may” most times, however, it often means that the event has less possibility of happening than when it’s said using may. Its negative form, “ might not ” is used to talk about possibilities but in a negative way.

Examples of the modal verb “might”:

I heard that tomorrow it might rain. Don’t call Lisa right now, she might not be in school. Baby Bot has a new dance teacher that you might like. Elliot might need your help later. Billy might go to Canada this summer. This art class looks interesting, I might take it.

The main use of the modal verb “will” is to form the future form of the verbs in English . However, it also has many other important uses, like to talk about wishes, requests, demands, to make predictions and assumptions, to make promises and to talk about spontaneous decisions and also to talk about habits. When talking about demands and requests, the use of will sometimes is not as polite as other modal verbs. Its negative form is “ won’t ”.

Examples of modal verb “will”:

The dog will play with its tail for hours. Do you need help? I will help you! Look at the sky, it won’t rain later. Billy thinks his team will win the championship. I don’t have my phone here, but I will call Elliot as soon as I can. Will you turn off the light?

The use of the modal verb “would” can be similar to the modal verb “will”, both are used to make wishes and to make requests . However, “would” is a much more polite way to do so. It’s also used to talk about habits in the past, to make arrangements, to state preferences and to make invitations.

Examples of the modal verb “would”:

I remember I would stay awake all night reading when I was young. Would you open the window, please? I would love to sing, thanks! Would you like to play basketball with me on Sunday? I would rather have water, please. Would you prefer dark or white chocolate?

This modal verb is more common in British English than in American English. It’s usually for making offers, suggestions, to talk about options, and to ask about what to do, but in a very polite way. Its negative form, “ shall not” is used to talk about things that are forbidden or not allowed.

Examples of the modal verb “shall”:

Shall I help you with your bags? Great, let’s meet later. Shall we say 3 p.m. then? You shall not forget to bring your bike. He shall be replaced with a new music teacher. Shall we begin eating?

As a modal verb, “should” has many important uses in the English language. It’s used to give advice, to express what’s right, and to recommend an action . Also, it’s used to make predictions, but ones that are more uncertain than those with the other modal verbs. Its negative form is “ shouldn’t ”.

Examples with modal verb “should”:

We should arrive on time if we leave now. Lisa thinks that we should meet on Thursdays. Should I stay here? The kids should start studying soon. I think you should buy a blue car instead of a red one. Maybe we should check everything again.

This is one of the less known modal verbs, and it’s a synonym of the verb “should”, but it’s less frequently used than this one. It’s also used to express advice and obligation.

Examples with the modal verb “ought to”:

It’s raining. You ought to drive carefully when you leave.

Lisa ought to help her sister when she moves to her new house. Cowy, you ought to help Baby Bot with her homework! All the players ought to be on the field after lunch.

The modal verb “must” is the perfect option to talk about necessity . Also, it’s used to talk about possibilities, but in a much more certain way. Additionally, this verb can be used to talk about advice and recommendations.

Examples with the modal verb “must” :

I must go, I have a doctor’s appointment soon. You mustn’t use mom’s tablet without her permission. Lisa has been studying all day, she must be tired. The new film is great, you must see it! Billy must be a teacher, he knows a lot about science.

Even though modal verbs don’t have the same properties as the rest of verbs in the English language, they help make sentences clearer and more accurate by helping evaluate the actions mentioned in a sentence, and expressing if these are possible, not likely to happen, if they are obligations or needs!

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200+ Sentences with Modal Verbs

Sentences with modal verbs.

Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that are used to express modality, or the speaker’s attitude or stance towards the proposition they are making. They can be used to express possibility, necessity, permission, obligation, and advice.

Some common modal verbs in English include:

Here are 200+ sentences that include modal verbs:

• I can swim.
• You must study.
• She might join us.
• He should arrive soon.
• We could go for a walk.
• They would like to visit.
• It may rain later.
• I must finish my homework.
• You can borrow my pen.
• She should see a doctor.
• He might have forgotten.
• We could travel next month.
• They would prefer tea.
• It may not be possible.
• I can’t believe it.
• You mustn’t touch that.
• She might not be home.
• He should know better.
• We could have lunch together.
• They would rather stay in.
• It may take a while.
• I must apologize for that.
• You can’t do that here.
• She might have left early.
• He should have called.
• We could try again later.
• They would have helped.
• It may get noisy.
• I can cook dinner.
• You must attend the meeting.
• She might as well try.
• He should work harder.
• We could use some help.
• They would like some advice.
• It may snow tomorrow.
• I must ask a question.
• You can join us if you want.
• She might have a solution.
• He should take a break.
• We could go shopping.
• They would rather not go.
• It may not be worth it.
• I can’t believe my eyes.
• You must follow the rules.
• She might have misunderstood.
• He should be more careful.
• We could meet at the park.
• They would appreciate that.
• It may require some effort.
• I must finish this book.
• You can’t leave yet.
• She might be busy now.
• He should have known better.
• We could go to the beach.
• They would like a refund.
• It may take some time.
• I can speak French.
• You must stay here.
• She might have a point.
• He should ask for help.
• We could invite them over.
• They would rather go out.
• It may not make sense.
• I must call my friend.
• You can’t eat that.
• She might need assistance.
• He should arrive on time.
• We could go on a trip.
• They would like to know.
• It may be a challenge.
• I can’t swim well.
• You mustn’t forget this.
• She might be in trouble.
• He should try harder.
• We could leave early.
• They would rather be alone.
• It may not be necessary.
• I must go to the store.
• You can come with us.
• She might have a suggestion.
• He should have listened.
• We could order pizza.
• They would like to learn.
• It may rain tomorrow.
• I can’t believe I did that.
• You mustn’t be late.
• She might enjoy the movie.
• He should exercise more.
• We could have a picnic.
• They would rather wait.
• It may be too expensive.
• I must finish this task.
• You can’t stop me.
• She might come later.
• He should be careful.
• We could go hiking.
• They would like to help.
• I can’t find my keys.
• You must do your best.
• She might need some rest.
• He should be proud.
• We could try a new recipe.
• They would rather stay home.
• It may not work out.
• I can’t understand this.
• You mustn’t give up.
• She might get a promotion.
• He should go to the doctor.
• We could watch a movie.
• They would like to see you.
• It may not be a problem.
• I can’t handle this stress.
• You must believe in yourself.
• She might not be available.
• He should have checked.
• We could play a game.
• They would rather have pizza.
• It may not be a good idea.
• I can’t make it tonight.
• You mustn’t touch that button.
• She might be at home.
• He should have told me.
• We could go to the park.
• They would like to talk.
• It may not be that difficult.
• I can’t afford it.
• You must be careful.
• She might have a plan.
• He should be more responsible.
• We could go for a drive.
• They would rather go alone.
• I can’t explain it.
• You mustn’t forget.
• She might have forgotten.
• He should have asked.
• We could go swimming.
• They would like to go shopping.
• It may not be safe.
• I can’t believe this happened.
• You must take this seriously.
• She might have some advice.
• He should have come earlier.
• We could go hiking together.
• They would rather not go out.
• It may not be a good time.
• I can’t remember her name.
• You mustn’t interrupt.
• He should have called me.
• We could have a party.
• They would like to come.
• It may not be a big deal.
• I can’t do this alone.
• You mustn’t tell anyone.
• She might have some ideas.
• He should have listened to me.
• We could go camping.
• They would rather stay in tonight.
• It may not be a problem for him.
• I can’t go to the concert.
• You mustn’t eat that.
• She might have other plans.
• He should have apologized.
• They would like to travel.
• It may not be a good fit.
• I can’t believe it’s true.
• You mustn’t be so negative.
• She might have a good reason.
• He should have left earlier.
• We could go to the museum.
• They would like to meet you.
• It may not be the right time.
• I can’t imagine that.
• You mustn’t make a mess.
• She might have a suggestion for you.
• He should have called ahead.
• We could go to the zoo.
• They would like to have dinner.
• It may not be what you think.
• I can’t wait any longer.
• You mustn’t give up now.
• She might have a surprise.
• He should have been more careful.
• We could go to the concert.
• They would like to go for a walk.
• It may not be as easy as it seems.
• I can’t do it by myself.
• You mustn’t worry too much.
• She might have a question.
• He should have arrived earlier.
• We could go to the party.
• They would like to see the show.
• It may not be a big issue.
• I can’t find my way back.
• You mustn’t talk to strangers.
• She might have a message for you.
• He should have been more understanding.
• We could go to the restaurant.
• They would like to go to the movies.
• It may not be a simple task.
• I can’t do this anymore.
• You mustn’t go there alone.
• She might have a suggestion for us.
• He should have brought his ID.
• We could go to the game.
• They would like to have a chat.
• It may not be a good choice.
• I can’t finish this puzzle.
• You mustn’t eat too much candy.
• She might have a problem with that.
• He should have checked his email.
• We could go to the party together.
• They would like to come over.
• It may not be what you expect.
• I can’t make up my mind.
• You mustn’t be so hard on yourself.
• She might have a different opinion.
• He should have been more patient.
• We could go to the concert early.
• They would like to go for a drive.
• It may not be the best idea.
• I can’t handle this situation.
• You mustn’t go there alone at night.
• She might have a suggestion for the project.
• He should have attended the meeting.
• We could go to the park later.
• They would like to go shopping together.
• It may not be as simple as it looks.
• I can’t finish this book in one day.
• You mustn’t forget to lock the door.
• She might have a solution to the problem.
• He should have brought an umbrella.
• We could go to the museum tomorrow.
• They would like to have dinner with us.
• It may not be the right time to ask.
• I can’t handle the pressure.
• You mustn’t give up on your dreams.
• She might have a recommendation for a restaurant.
• He should have read the instructions.
• We could go to the beach next weekend.
• They would like to go hiking in the mountains.
• It may not be a quick fix.
• I can’t do this assignment without help.
• You mustn’t go out after midnight.
• She might have a tip for saving money.
• He should have double-checked the details.
• We could go to the amusement park in the summer.

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Passive Voice with Modal Verbs with Rules and Examples

Passive voice and modal verbs are two essential aspects of English grammar, each serving a unique purpose. Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express certainty, possibility, permission, or obligation in a sentence. On the other hand, the passive voice is a grammatical construction in which the subject receives the action rather than performing it. In this article, we’ll explore how modal verbs and passive voice work together to create different sentence structures. We’ll also share rules and examples to enhance your understanding of this concept. So, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

What is Passive Voice?

Passive voice is a way of constructing sentences where the subject of the sentence receives the action of the verb rather than performing it. In passive voice, the focus is on the receiver of the action rather than the doer. For example, “The ball was kicked by Sarah.” In this sentence, the ball (the receiver) is the focus, even though Sarah (the doer) is mentioned.

Structure: Subject + (to be) + past participle + (by + agent, if mentioned)

Passive voice is formed by using a form of the verb “to be” (such as “is,” “am,” “are,” “was,” “were,” etc.) followed by the past participle form of the main verb. It’s often used when the doer of the action is unknown, or unimportant, or when the focus needs to be shifted to the receiver of the action.

What are Modal Verbs?

Modal verbs are a category of auxiliary verbs (also called helping verbs) that express the mood or attitude of the speaker toward the action or state of the main verb in a sentence. These verbs indicate possibility, necessity, permission, ability, obligation, or likelihood. In English, the most common modal verbs include:

• Can: Shows ability or possibility.
• Could: Often used for past ability or polite requests.
• May: Expresses permission or possibility.
• Might: Indicates a possibility, often with uncertainty.
• Must: Shows necessity or strong obligation.
• Shall: Used for making suggestions, promises, or offers.
• Should: Indicates advice, obligation, or expectation.
• Will: Shows future intention or prediction.
• Would: Used for polite requests or hypothetical situations.
• Ought to: Used to express moral obligation or duty.

Passive Voice with Modal Verbs Rules

When combining passive voice with modal verbs, the modal verb appears before the main verb in its past participle form.

Modal + Be + Past Participle

Use a modal verb (can, should, must, might, will, could) followed by a form of the verb “to be” (am, is, are, was, were) and the past participle of the main verb.

• Structure: M o d a l V er b + be ( am / i s / a re / w a s / w ere) + p a s t p a r t i c i pl e
• The problem can be solved.
• The document may be misplaced.
• The solution should be considered.

Modal + Have Been + Past Participle

This structure is used to talk about actions that were completed or ongoing at a specific time in the past.

• Structure: M o d a l V er b + ha v e b ee n + P a s t P a r t i c i pl e
• The problem can have been solved.
• The document may have been misplaced.
• The solution should have been implemented.

These structures allow us to express various ideas such as possibility, necessity, permission, etc., in passive voice. The first structure emphasizes actions that can happen, are expected, or are allowed to happen, while the second structure highlights actions that likely happened or were ongoing in the past.

Passive Voice with Modal Verbs

It is a grammatical construction where the subject of a sentence receives the action, and a modal verb is used to express the possibility, necessity, permission, or other qualities of the action. Below is a list of Passive Voice with all Modal Verbs along with their structure and example sentences.

• It indicates ability, possibility, or permission.
• Structure: Subject + can + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The problem can be solved easily.
• Represents past ability, possibility, or permission.
• Structure: Subject + could + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The task could have been completed earlier.
• Expresses permission, possibility, or likelihood.
• Structure: Subject + may + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The decision may be reconsidered later.
• It suggests a possibility or uncertain future.
• Structure: Subject + might + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The missing keys might be found soon.
• Conveys necessity, obligation, or a strong recommendation.
• Structure: Subject + must + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The rules must be followed by all participants.
• It indicates a future event or offers a suggestion.
• Structure: Subject + shall + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The decision shall have been made by now.
• Advises or recommends something.
• Structure: Subject + should + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The instructions should be followed carefully.
• Indicates future events, intentions, or promises.
• Structure: Subject + will + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The message will be delivered by noon.
• Expresses hypothetical situations or polite requests.
• Structure: Subject + would + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The problem would be solved with the right approach.
• Used to suggest moral obligations or duties.
• Structure: Subject + ought to + be/have been + past participle
• Example: Safety precautions ought to be taken seriously.

Passive Voice with Modals Examples

• The matter will be discussed.
• The contract would be signed.
• The problem can be solved .
• The document may be misplaced .
• The cake may be baked by the chef.
• The solution might be overlooked .
• The keys might be found later.
• The issue might be resolved .
• The task should be completed .
• The form should be filled out.
• The project must be approved.
• The rules must be followed.
• The report must be reviewed.
• The problem ought to be addressed.
• The news will be announced soon.
• The job will be done by the deadline.
• The decision ought   to be respected.
• The agreement shall be signed shortly.
• The task should have been completed.

Passive Voice with Modal Verbs Exercises

Put the following sentences into passive voice. (Modals)

• The problem can be solved by her.
• The assignment must be finished by him.
• The room should be cleaned by them.
• The museum might be visited by us.
• The house will be painted by them.
• A cake would be baked by her.
• The puzzle could be solved by him.
• The car needs to be repaired by them.
• The report has to be written by her.
• The project has to be finished by us.
• The event had to be canceled by them.
• She might have been forgotten.

Q1. What is passive voice?

Passive voice is a grammatical construction where the subject of a sentence undergoes an action rather than performing it. In passive-voice sentences, the focus is on the action or the recipient of the action rather than the doer.

Q2. What are modal verbs?

Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express various attitudes including possibility, necessity, permission, ability, obligation, and prediction. The ten main modal verbs are can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, would, and ought to.

Q3. How do you form passive voice with modal verbs?

To form passive voice with modal verbs, you use the modal verb followed by “be” and the past participle of the main verb. For example: “The door can be opened.” Here, “can” is the modal verb, “be” is the auxiliary verb, and “opened” is the past participle of the main verb “open”.

Q4. What is the function of modal verbs in passive voice constructions?

Modal verbs in passive voice constructions indicate the possibility, necessity, permission, ability, obligation, or prediction associated with the action being described in the passive voice sentence. They modify the verb to convey the desired meaning.

• The assignment could be finished.
• The proposal may be approved.
• The task must be completed.
• The report shall be submitted.
• The decision ought to be respected.

You May Also Like:

• Modal Verbs | List of Modal Verbs with Examples PDF
• Active Voice and Passive Voice Rules with Examples
• Modals Verbs Exercises with Answers in English
• Active and Passive Voice Worksheets with Answers
• Active And Passive Voice With Rules and Examples

active and passive voice with modals examples Passive Voice with Modal Verbs Passive Voice with Modal Verbs Examples Passive voice with modal verbs pdf Passive Voice with Modal Verbs Rules Passive Voice with Modals Exercises passive voice with modals exercises with answers should passive voice examples What are Modal Verbs? What is Passive Voice?

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