MODALS TABLE.

MODALS

MODAL USE EXAMPLES

COULD

(Making suggestions)

We use “COULD” to give suggestions.

To express probability

Ask for something

We could go to the beach.

My brother could help you with your homework.

Laura could ask her parents some money to buy a new dress.

That light could be a UFO.

They could live in this house.

He couldn’t run so fast with those shoes.

Could I have another cup-cake?

Could you call me tonight?

MAY / COULD

We use “MAY” or “COULD” to ask for permission to do something.

To express probability

Formal May I sit here?

Could I sit here?

Informal Can I sit here?

I may finish tomorrow.

Laura may be wrong.

He may not be right

MIGHT

We use “MIGHT” to express ‘remote possibility’ like May

He might go to Paris this month.

It might not be so easy

They might not know the Daniel’s address.

SHOULD / SHOULDN’T

(Giving advice)

We use “SHOULD” to give advice or recommend something.

We should drink more water.

Hector should live a healthy lifestyle.

That man shouldn’t be so rude with the clients.

Anne shouldn’t walk home alone at night.

Should I tell Katy the truth about her boyfriend?

Yes, you should. No, you shouldn’t.

HAVE TO / HAS TO

DON’T HAVE TO

DOESN’T HAVE TO

We use “HAVE TO” to talk about something that we need to do.

I have to sweep all the house right now.

Mrs. Lopez has to make breakfast for her children.

We don’t have to go to school this week.

My little sister doesn’t have to wake up early tomorrow.

Do they have to mop the classroom?

Yes, they have to.

No, they don’t have to.

Does Michael have to learn grammar for the exam?

Yes, he has to. / No, he doesn’t have to.

MUST / MUSTN’T

We usually use “MUST” and “MUSTN’T” for laws and rules.

“MUST” is a very strong word. You must clean the classroom before leaving.

My sister and I mustn’t arrive home late.

We mustn’t smoke at school.

Kim

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