Language of the Day: Modal Verbs

Modal verbs are small but mighty tools in English grammar. They help us express ability, possibility, necessity, permission, and advice. Understanding how to use them correctly can dramatically improve your fluency and clarity in both writing and speaking.

🔍 What Are Modal Verbs?

Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that modify the main verb in a sentence. Common modal verbs include:

  • Can / Could

  • May / Might

  • Shall / Should

  • Will / Would

  • Must

  • Ought to

  • Need (as a modal)

They are followed by the base form of the main verb (without “to”).

Example:

  • ✅ She can swim.

  • ❌ She can to swim.

🧠 How to Use Modal Verbs

Let’s break down the main uses of modal verbs with examples.

1. Expressing Ability

  • Can: Present or general ability

    • I can speak French.

  • Could: Past ability or polite possibility

    • When I was younger, I could run five miles.

2. Asking for or Giving Permission

  • May: Formal permission

    • May I leave early today?

  • Can: Informal permission

    • Can I borrow your pen?

  • Might: Tentative permission

    • You might be allowed to join later.

3. Expressing Possibility

  • May / Might: Possibility in the present or future

    • It may rain tomorrow.

    • She might come to the party.

  • Could: Possibility with uncertainty

    • This could be the solution.

4. Expressing Obligation or Necessity

  • Must: Strong obligation or necessity

    • You must wear a seatbelt.

  • Should / Ought to: Advice or mild obligation

    • You should eat more vegetables.

    • We ought to respect others.

  • Need (modal): Necessity (less common)

    • You need not worry. (meaning: you don’t have to worry)

5. Making Predictions or Offers

  • Will: Future certainty or promise

    • I will call you tomorrow.

  • Shall: Formal future or offer (mostly British English)

    • Shall we dance?

  • Would: Hypothetical or polite request

    • I would go if I had time.

    • Would you like some coffee?

📝 Tips for Using Modal Verbs Correctly

  1. Use the base form of the verb after a modal.

    • ✅ She should go now.

    • ❌ She should goes now.

  2. Modal verbs do not change form.

    • ✅ He can play guitar.

    • ❌ He cans play guitar.

  3. Use modal verbs to soften statements.

    • You might want to check that again. (softer than “You should check that again.”)

🗣️ Practice Sentences

Try filling in the blanks with the correct modal verb:

  1. You ___ finish your homework before watching TV. (obligation)

  2. ___ I open the window? (permission)

  3. She ___ be at home, but I’m not sure. (possibility)

  4. We ___ go hiking if the weather is nice. (possibility)

  5. He ___ speak three languages. (ability)

Answers: 1. should/must, 2. May/Can, 3. might/could, 4. might/could, 5. can

✍️ Final Thoughts

Modal verbs are essential for expressing nuance in English. Whether you're giving advice, making a polite request, or talking about future possibilities, mastering modals will make your communication more precise and natural.

Zach J