Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express necessity, possibility, permission, or ability. They do not change form according to the subject, and they are followed by the base form of the verb.
- Common Modal Verbs: can, could, should, would, must, may, might, shall, will
1. Can / Could
- Usage: Express ability, possibility, or permission.
- Form: Can/could + base form of the verb
- Examples:
- She can swim very well. (ability)
- You can borrow my car. (permission)
- Could you help me with this? (request)
2. Should / Would
- Usage: Express obligation, recommendation, or hypothetical situations.
- Form: Should/would + base form of the verb
- Examples:
- You should study for the exam. (recommendation)
- I would go if I had more time. (hypothetical)
3. Must
- Usage: Express strong obligation or necessity.
- Form: Must + base form of the verb
- Examples:
- You must wear a seatbelt. (obligation)
- They must be home by now. (certainty)
