Modal Verbs Uses

MODAL VERBS

USES

PERMISSION (ASK/REFUSE)

REQUEST

ABILITY

ABSENCE OF NECESSITY

OBLIGATION NECESSITY

-ADVISE- STRONG OBLIGATION

POSSIBILITY/ PROBABILITY

SUGGESTION

PROHIBITION

OFFER

can, could, be able to, couldn't.

- I can swim very well.

might, may, must, could, can't be

- It might rain later, look at those cluds.

ASK

REFUSE

can, could, may, might

mustn't, can't

- Can I speak to Mr. Chu?

- You can't go to the party.

can, could, will

Could you tell me the time?

would you like, shall I, will...

- Would you like some coffee?

cuould, shall I...

- Given the color of your shoes, you could choose the red dress instead of the blue one.

should, ought to, had better

- You should have a healthier diet

must, have to, have got to

- You must fasten your seatbelt.

needn't, don't need to, don't have to

- You don't need to wear long dress, it's an informal party.

mustn't, can't

- Children can't swimming unsupervised.