Intermediate Grammar – Modal Verbs

Hey there!

Ready to exercise your brain a little bit?

Welcome to today’s grammar class. It is an intermediate class on using modal verbs.  If you are not sure of your English level, take our test!

You can find all of this information, plus speaking exercises, writing exercises, vocabulary exercises and more on the ABA English Course Unit 49 “A Terrific Teacher”.

Modal Verbs

The modal verb is a type of auxiliary verb that is used to indicate many different things.

Let’s take a look at them and find out what each one is used for.

Can

“Can” is used for ability or possibility.

Example:

“I can swim but I cannot dive”

Could

Is the past of “can”.

Example:

“My brother could speak French when he was 15”

May

Used for possibility or permission.

Example:

“We may go on holiday to Greece this year”

Might

We use “might” for remote possibility or as the past of “may”.

Example:

“We might even go to China if we have the money”

Must

We use “must” for obligation.

Example:

“You must see the latest film”

More modal verbs

Will

Used to form the future.

Example:

“They will decide after the meeting”

Shall

We use “shall” for suggestions.

Example:

“Shall we go now?”

Would

Unconditional sentences.

Example:

“He would come if he wasn’t studying for his exams”

Should

Recommendations and advice.

Example:

“We should send flowers on her anniversary”

Ought to

Recommendations or advice.

Example:

“The ought to pay you extra; you are working so many hours”

Woo Hoo! Now you know all about modal verbs.

Also, if you follow the whole unit, you will learn all abut the special characteristics of modal verbs.

In Unit 49 “A Terrific Teacher”, you will find out about Andrew and Emily. Andrew is an amazing teacher who helps Emily understand modal verbs. Let Andrew help you too!

Did you enjoy this lesson? If you did, then sign up! (it’s free!)