Modal verbs
Definition
Modal verbs such as can, could, may, might, must, should and will add meanings such as ability, permission, possibility, obligation, advice and prediction. A modal is followed by the base form of the main verb without to.
subject + modal + base verb (no to)
Examples
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Nora can speak three languages.
Can expresses present ability.
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You should check the address again.
Should gives advice.
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It might rain this evening.
Might expresses possibility.
Modal verb vs. ordinary verb
She has to leave now.
Have to changes for subject and tense and uses to.
She must leave now.
Must does not take -s and is followed directly by the base verb.
Central modal verbs do not take -s, -ing or to before the following main verb. Semi-modal expressions such as have to behave differently.
The same modal can express different meanings
Context determines the meaning. Could, for example, can describe past ability, make a polite request or express a possibility.
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I could swim when I was five.
The modal describes past ability.
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Could you open the window?
The same modal makes a polite request.
Common mistakes
She can sings well.
She can sing well.
Use the base form after a modal.
He must to leave.
He must leave.
Do not add to after a central modal verb.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence has the correct modal pattern?
A modal is followed directly by the base form: might arrive.Which sentence gives advice?
Should commonly expresses advice.Which question is formed correctly?
A modal question places the modal before the subject and keeps the main verb in the base form.Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
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