Modal Verbs Basics - English Grammar

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The issue of modal verbs is commonly regarded as one of the most difficult chapters of English grammar. Yet, it is not that difficult as it might seem. There are several types of modal verbs, which are followed by the simple form of verbs. In the video the fact that there is no “to” in between the modal verb and the simple verb is also stressed. Moreover, the basic meaning of all the distinctive English modal verbs is explained and illustrated.

Modal Verbs + Simple Form

All the English modal verbs go before a verb in the simple form. As illustrated in the video one can use structures like can be or should do with almost any verb of the English language. Note that there is no to in between the modal verb and the simple form of the verb.

Meaning of modal verbs

In the video the meaning and application of some of the different modal verbs is explained:

• can expresses ability and is also used in questions. (e.g. I can play football. Can you play the guitar?)
• could is the past tense of can and also expressed ability (e.g. I could play football.)
• may expresses possibility and is also used when asking for permission (e.g. May I use the bathroom, please?). “May “ is considered to be more polite than can.
• might also expresses possibility and is a good substitute for may. (e.g. Our train might arrive a little bit later than expected.)
• must expresses necessity. Something is important. (e.g. You must do your homework now!)
• should expressed that something is a good idea. It is also used for recommendations. It is not as strong as must. (e.g. In order to get a good mark on your test you should study with your colleagues.)
• will is used for the future. (e.g. Will he be my partner for this exercise?)
• would is the past tense of will and is also used for asking polite questions. (e.g. Would you mind giving me that book?)

further exercises:

• Modal Verbs Continuous Form
• Modal Verbs and Auxiliary Verbs