Grammar Topic
Modal Verbs: Can, Could, May, Might, Must, Shall, Should, Will, Would
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Explanation
Modal verbs express ability, permission, obligation, possibility, or advice. They are followed by the base form of the main verb.
Can/Could: ability (She can swim. She could swim when she was five.) and permission (Can I go?)
May/Might: permission (May I leave?) and possibility (It may rain.)
Must: strong obligation (You must study.) and logical certainty (He must be tired.)
Should: advice (You should rest.)
Will/Would: future (I will help you.) and polite requests (Would you help me?)
Must vs Have to: must = personal obligation; have to = external obligation. Must not = prohibition; don't have to = not necessary.
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Examples
Ability: She can swim. He could run fast when he was young.
Permission: Can I go out? May I use your phone?
Obligation: You must study for the exam. You should rest.
Possibility: It may rain tomorrow. He might come late.
Future: I will help you. She would travel if she could.
Advice: You should eat healthy food. You shouldn't smoke.
Must not vs Don't have to: You must not cheat. You don't have to come early.
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Test Your Knowledge
Mini Quiz
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Which modal verb expresses strong obligation or necessity?
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