What are Modal Verbs? Definition, Examples, Exercises

What are Modal Verbs? Have you ever wondered how we express possibilities, obligations, and permissions in English? The answer lies in a special category of verbs known as modal verbs. They are an essential component of English grammar, serving as auxiliary verbs that modify the meaning of main verbs. They also convey various nuances such as ability, possibility, permission, obligation, and necessity. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of modal verbs, exploring their definition, common examples, and how to use them effectively in your English language.

What are Modal Verbs in English?

What are Modal Verbs? Modal verbs (also known as modal auxiliary verbs) do not change form based on the subject and are always followed by the base form of the main verb without “to.” For example, in the sentence “She can swim,” “can” is the modal verb and “swim” is the main verb.

Some of the common modal verbs are:

• Can: Expresses ability or informal permission.
• Could: Indicates past ability or polite requests.
• May: Used for formal permission or possibility.
• Might: Suggests a lower probability than “may.”
• Must: Indicates necessity or strong obligation.

Also Read: Simple Present Tense Exercises

Modal Verbs Examples

Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express necessity, possibility, permission, or ability. Here are example sentences using various modal verbs:

1. Can

• Ability: She can speak three languages fluently.
• Permission: You can borrow my book if you promise to return it.

2. Could

• Past Ability: When I was younger, I could run a mile in under six minutes.
• Polite Request: Could you please help me with my homework?

3. May

• Permission: You may leave the table once you finish your meal.
• Possibility: It may rain later today, so take an umbrella.

4. Might

• Possibility: We might go to the beach this weekend if the weather is nice.
• Suggestion: You might want to consider a different approach to the problem.

5. Must

• Necessity/Obligation: You must wear a seatbelt while driving.
• Logical Conclusion: She’s been studying all week; she must be ready for the exam.

6. Shall

• Future Action (formal): I shall return before noon.
• Suggestion/Offer: Shall we go for a walk?

7. Should

• Advice/Recommendation: You should see a doctor if you’re feeling unwell.
• Expectation: The train should arrive by 5 PM.

8. Will

• Future Intentions: I will help you with your project tomorrow.
• Promise: I will always be there for you.

9. Would

• Polite Request/Offer: Would you like some coffee?
• Hypothetical Situation: If I had more time, I would travel around the world.

Also Read: Tenses Cheat Sheet

10 Sentences Using Modal Verbs

Here are ten sentences that effectively demonstrate the use of various modal verbs:

1. Can: I can finish this report by the end of the day if I focus.
2. Could: When I was a child, I could climb trees much higher than I can now.
3. May: You may leave the meeting if you have no further questions.
4. Might: She might join us for dinner if she finishes her work on time.
5. Must: You must wear a helmet while riding your bike for safety.
6. Shall: We shall meet at the park at 3 PM, as planned.
7. Should: You should try that new restaurant; I’ve heard great things about it.
8. Will: I will call you later to discuss our plans for the weekend.
9. Would: If I won the lottery, I would travel to every country in the world.
10. Could have: I could have gone to the concert last night, but I decided to stay home instead.

The above sentences illustrate a variety of contexts in which modal verbs can be used, showcasing their ability to express, permission, possibility, obligation, and more.

Also Read: Rules in Grammar 

Modal Verbs Exercises

Here are some exercises focused on modal verbs, along with answers to help you practice and improve your understanding of their usage.

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

Instructions: Complete the following sentences by filling in the blanks with the correct modal verb from the options provided.

1. You ___ (should/must) wear a helmet while riding a bike.
2. I ___ (can/could) play the guitar when I was younger.
3. ___ (May/Can) I borrow your pencil for a moment?
4. She ___ (might/must) be home by now, but I’m not sure.
5. If I were you, I ___ (should/would) apologise immediately.
6. They ___ (must/can) be here any minute.
7. He said he ___ (will/could) help me with my project next week.
8. ___ (Would/Will) you like some coffee?
9. We ___ (should/must) leave early tomorrow for the trip.
10. You ___ (must/might) not speak to strangers.

Answers:

1. Must
2. Could
3. May
4. Might
5. Should
6. Must
7. Will
8. Would
9. Must
10. Must not

Exercise 2: Identify the Modal Verb

Instructions: Choose the correct modal verb to complete each sentence.

1. My teacher ___ (can/must) speak four languages.
2. ___ (May/Should) I use your mobile to call my mother?
3. You ___ (must/could) not speak loudly in the hospital.
4. I ___ (could/must) use a little help in packing all these clothes.
5. Madam, ___ (could/may) you repeat what you said?
6. I ___ (can/might) not be able to make it tonight.
7. Sheldon ___ (ought to/must) study more if he wants to pass the test.
8. ___ (Can/May) you come to the prom with me?
9. My parents ___ (shall/ought to) arrive soon.
10. I ___ (could/must) be late as I have a lot on my plate.

Answers:

1. Can
2. May
3. Must
4. Could
5. Could
6. Might
7. Must
8. Can
9. Shall
10. Could

Exercise 3: Rewrite the Sentences Using Modals

Instructions: Rewrite the following sentences using appropriate modal verbs.

1. It is possible that John will come to the party.
2. It is necessary for students to submit their assignments on time.
3. It is not allowed to use mobile phones in the exam hall.
4. It was possible for her to win the race, but she didn’t try hard enough.
5. You are advised to see a doctor if you feel unwell.

Answers

1. John might come to the party.
2. Students must submit their assignments on time.
3. You must not use mobile phones in the exam hall.
4. She could have won the race if she had tried harder.
5. You should see a doctor if you feel unwell.

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