Modal Verbs: rules of use, examples. Modal verbs in English

Due to their special semantics and form of agreement, modal verbs are considered as a separate grammatical category. In affirmative sentences they are used as part of the predicate, and in negative and interrogative sentences they serve as an auxiliary verb. For example:

(+) He can sing. - He can (can) sing.
(-) He can’t (can’t) sing. - He doesn’t know how (can) sing.
(?) Can he sing? - Can (Can) he sing?

There are several rules that will help you correctly construct phrases and sentences with modal verbs:

1. Modal verbs are not used on their own, but only in combination with other verbs. For example:

James can drink a bottle of whiskey. - James can drink a bottle of whiskey.

2. Most modal verbs never change in gender, number and person. For example:

I must find that book. - I have to find that book. (1st person singular)
He must find that book. - He must find that book. (3rd person singular)
We must find that book. - We have to find that book. (1st person plural)

The exceptions are the modal verbs have to (must) and need to (necessary). For example:

You have to clean the room. - You must (you should) clean the room. (2nd person plural)
He has to clean the room. - He must (he should) clean the room. (3rd person singular)

I need to learn how to drive. - I need to learn to drive a car. (1st person singular)
She needs to learn how to drive. - She needs to learn to drive a car. (3rd person singular)

3. Modal verbs do not change form, i.e. do not form an infinitive, gerund or participle like basic English verbs. Let's look at the changes in form using the example of the verb help:

(to) help (infinitive) - helping (gerund) - helped (participle)

4. After modal verbs, an infinitive verb without the particle to is always used. For example:

We can change the rules of the game. - We can change the rules of this game.
He must pay for the tickets. - He must pay for the tickets.

5. Most modal verbs are considered auxiliary verbs, so they can form their own questions and negatives. For example:

(-) You can"t (cannot) just leave. - You can’t just leave.
(-) Chris shouldn't (should not) lie to his parents. - Chris shouldn't lie to his parents.

(?) Could you repeat the sentence, please? - Could you repeat (this) sentence, please?
(?) What can I do for you? - What can I do for you?

Exceptions are the modal verbs have to and need to, which are not auxiliaries. In this regard, to form their questions and denials, they need the help of the auxiliary verbs do and does (3rd person singular). For example:

(-) You don"t have to go there. - You don’t need (not necessarily) to go there.
(-) My dad doesn't need to work. - My dad doesn't need (no need) to work.

(?) Does it have to be this way? - Should it be like this?
(?) Do I need to apologise? - Do I need to apologize?

6. Some modal verbs do not have future or past forms. Let's look at the temporary table:

Answer

There are no analogues of modal verbs in Russian. However, speaking English without using modal verbs is almost impossible. It is recommended to start learning grammar by including them in the program.

Modal verbs need to be known like the multiplication tables, as this is considered Elementary English.

Modal verbs are not used independently and do not denote a specific action, but reflect the speaker’s attitude to the action, i.e. modality. This is their secret - simplicity and complexity at the same time.

List of modal verbs and their equivalents

Interrogative and negative forms of modal verbs

• Modal verbs form interrogative and negative forms independently, without using the special verb “to do”. In this case, the modal verb is placed at the beginning of the sentence in the question.

Shall I help you?
Should I help you?

Could you give me his address, please?
Can you give me his address, please?

Non-finite forms such as the infinitive, gerund and participle are not inherent in modal verbs. Modal verbs lack complex tense forms and the imperative mood. For all persons and numbers, modal verbs use a single unchangeable form.

• Negative form modal verb is formed by placing the particle “not” after it. Often, especially in oral speech, they merge into an abbreviated form. In colloquial speech the following abbreviations are usually used in the negative form: cannot = can"t, could not = couldn't may not = mayn't, might not = mightn't must not = mustn"t, ought not = oughtn"t, need not = needn't.

You can't help him.
You can't help him.

She might not come here.
She couldn't (she didn't have permission) to come here.

These signs allow you to rely on modal verbs when studying. Having memorized a small number of modal verbs, the student has a chance to immediately construct simple sentences based only on simple verbs. And this is very important. You will already be able to express your opinion with only a fairly small number of words in your arsenal.

Verbs of obligation (must, have to)

The main verbs of obligation are “must” and “have to”. " Must» expresses necessity committing actions(usually according to some rule or law), as well as an order or advice. Translation: “should”, “need”, “must”. " Have to" talking about necessity committing actions under forced circumstances when you clearly don’t want to do something, but, as they say, “you have to.” Usually translated into Russian as " must», « forced», « have to».

I have to work overtime.
I have to work overtime (I don't want to, but I have to).

You mustn't smoke at the airport.
You can't smoke at the airport (that's the rule).

Requests (shall, will)

“Shall”, “will” are also called modal verbs in combination. With their help you can create future times. As soon as " shall", "will" appear in a sentence - this is a sure sign debt, necessity, order or even threats. « Will"means a desire or intention, a polite request.

I want to come in. Shall I open the door?
I want to come in. I probably (should) open the door?

Will do you give me the ketchup?
Can you pass me the ketchup?

These verbs are original transmitters of the desired form of modality, and not only can form the future tense.

It is recommended to remember that after modal verbs, in addition to the verbs “ought to”, “have (got) to” and “be to”, an infinitive without the particle “to” is used. It is also called bare infinitive.

I must go.
I have to go.

Verb " ought to"is an obligatory verb. But unlike " must", which means must in connection with the requirements of rules, laws, authorities, "ought to" means obligated due to moral obligations. This is such a subtle difference. For example:

You ought to visit your parents more often.
Visit your parents more often.

You must keep the law.
Follow the laws.

Possibility, probability (can, may, must, might)

Most often, modal verbs “can”, “must”, “may” are used in this meaning. These are verbs of general meaning with the ability to replace other modal verbs. Modal verb " can" - the most popular. The usual translation into Russian is “to be able”, an expression of skill and ability to do something. For example:

I can help you.
I can help you.

The verb "can" is in the past tense " could" For example:

She could dance beautifully when she was young.
She could dance beautifully when she was young.

Modal verb " must", like "can", is used very often in speech. It is important to remember that in addition to its primary meaning - “to be due”, it is also used when we talk about the likelihood that something has happened. And this probability borders on certainty. For example:

I phoned, but nobody answered - they must be at work.
I called, but no one answered - they must be at work (i.e. I'm pretty sure of it).

Modal verb " may" has two main meanings: resolution and probability. Past tense form - " might" For example:

May I come in?
Can I come in? (Permission).

I might have taken only three seconds to show it to you.
It might only take me 3 seconds to show you this.

But " might» can also be used completely independently, meaning “possibly”. If we compare “may” and “might”, then in the case of the latter something may happen, but it is unlikely; if you say " may“Then the probability is greater. For example:

The sky is gray - it may rain today. They might come, but I don’t think so.

Past tense (Perfect Infinitive)

Perfect Infinitive, along with other infinitives, has no analogues in Russian. In speech it is used according to the following formula: have + 3rd form of the verb. Since most verbs do not have a past tense form, we use the Perfect Infinitive to show that something happened in the past. For example:

You should have called me yesterday.
You should have called me yesterday.

Passive voice with modal verbs

When we change a sentence from "active" to "passive", we must change the predicate of the sentence.

First, you need to put the verb “ to be” at the same time as used in the main sentence. Secondly, put the main verb in third form(Past Participle).

So, to compose a sentence with a modal verb, we need to put the verb to be in combination with the modal verb. It will look like this:

must be(it should be);
have to be(it should be);
ought to be(should be);
can be(May be);
should be(should be);
be supposed to be(it is believed that; it is assumed that;)

The secretary must write a letter. / The secretary must write a letter.
The letter must be written by the secretary. / The letter must be written by a secretary.

He has to do this test. / He must perform this test.
This test has to be done by him. / This test must be performed by him.

He was supposed to send an email an hour ago. / He was supposed to send the letter an hour ago.
The email was supposed to be sent by him an hour ago. / The email was supposed to be sent an hour ago.

Features of modal verbs

• Does not have a 3rd person singular present tense, that is, they are not placed with “-s” at the end.
• No infinitive, ing form and participle; never answer the question of what to do / what to do?
• They only require the form after themselves " Infinitive» without particle « to" (exception - " ought to», « have(got) to" And " be to"). I must go.
• Interrogative And negative forms proposals are constructed without an auxiliary verb « do", with the exception of the verb " have to».
• Verbs " have», « be», « should"can be not only modal, but also auxiliary, and the verbs " need», « have», « be», « get" - also semantic.
• According to their properties, English modal verbs, except “ have to», « have got to», « be to», « dare"are insufficient, that is do not have personal forms, and in connection with this do not form complex verb forms.

What does turnover mean: be supposed to and had better

The phrase “be supposed to” means that someone or something is expected to perform some action. If we select the Russian equivalent, the closest expressions are like: “in theory it should”, “as if it should”, “it is implied that it should”. It happens in the present (am / is / are) and past (was/were) tenses.

“Be supposed to” - rather than expressing an obligation, it expresses the expectation of performing some action.

I am supposed to obey my lord.
In theory, I should obey my master (but in reality I don’t obey that much).

I am supposed to do my duty.
I must do my duty (but if I don’t do it once, no one will notice).

Excuse me, you are not supposed to …
Sorry, but you can't...

“You are not supposed to” is a polite way to tell someone not to do something or to let them know they shouldn’t do it.

With turnover " had better“almost the same situation, only he expresses recommendation, desperation, warnings or threats. The modal verbs “ought to” and “shall” can be equivalent. Happens only in past form.

You had better take your umbrella with you today.
Today you better take an umbrella with you. (Expresses a recommendation.)

That bus had better get here soon!
I wish this bus would come sooner! (Expresses despair.)

You'd better not talk the way you talk to me in the future!
From now on, you better watch how you talk to me! (Expresses a warning, a threat.)

Modal verbs in indirect speech

Similar to tenses, modal verbs change in indirect speech if the words being conveyed are no longer true or are out of date.

Direct speech: can, may, will, must.
Indirect speech: could, might, would, had to.

Peter: "I can stay here until Sunday."
Peter: "I can stay here until Sunday."
He said that he could stay there until Sunday.
He said he could stay there until Sunday.

Dan: "You may don't need this"
Dan: “You might not need it.”
He said I might don't need that.
He said I might not need it.

Kelly: "My dad won't let me go to the party."
Kelly: "My dad won't let me go to the party."
She said that her father wouldn't let her go to the party.
She said her dad would let her go to the party.

Luke: "We must leave at 8 o"clock."
Luke: "We have to leave at 8 o'clock."
He said we had to leave at 8 o"clock.
He said we had to leave at 8 o'clock.

Using modal verbs with the perfect infinitive

Modal verbs can be used in combination with the perfect form of the infinitive, also called the modal perfect ( modal perfect). At the same time, the semantic load of the perfect infinitive has different meanings and depends on the specific modal verb and context.

The use of the modal perfect can name an action in the past, an unreal action, the degree of confidence in a certain action, and can also indicate that the opposite of the expected action took place.

Formula: modal verb + have + V3.

After modal verbs, the verb " have", forming a perfect infinitive, is pronounced in a reduced form:

They must have gone away already. ["mʌst"əv] - They must have already left.

In negative and interrogative sentences, the modal verb " can", used with the perfect infinitive, conveys disbelief into an action or event, past:

She can't have overslept. She is never late.
She couldn't sleep. She is never late.

• Could. The verb group (“could” + perfect infinitive) can be used with a meaning similar to “can”, but expresses a less categorical form:

I don't believe he could have done it. He is too weak.
I can't believe he could do this. He's too weak.

I didn't believe he could have done it. He was too weak.
I didn't believe he could do this. He was too weak.

Also, the perfect form of the verb is used with the modal verb “could” to indicate an action that could have happened, but did not happen:

We could have gone, but we didn't.
We could have left, but we didn't.

• May. The use of the modal verb may in combination with the perfect infinitive expresses assumption, uncertainty in what happened:

She may not have known about it. But it doesn't constitute justification.
She may not have known about it. But this is no excuse.
I"m not sure but he may have been here.
I'm not sure, but he could be here.

• Might. The use of the past tense form of the verb may indicates less likely to act or events:

Don't be angry with her. She might not have known about it.
Don't be mad at her. She may not have known about it.

• Must. This modal verb with a perfect infinitive indicates the certainty or high probability of an action occurring in the past and relevant to the present moment:

I figured I must have hurt the muscle while playing.
I think I must have injured a muscle while playing.
I can't find the keys. I mustn't have taken them.
I can't find the keys. I probably didn't take them.

• Need. In combination with a perfect infinitive, it expresses doubt about the appropriateness of an action performed in the past; it is used only in interrogative and negative sentences:

Need have you done it?
And what was the need for you to do this?
He needn't have been present all the time.
He didn't need to be there all this time. (There was no need).

• Ought. Expresses censure, reproach for what was not done or was done incorrectly:

You ought to have done it previously.
You should have done this earlier.

• Will. Used to express determination, desires or the intention to perform an action that must be completed before a certain time in the future or before the beginning of another action:

I won't have done it by the time you get back.
I (not finish) will not do this by the time you arrive.

• Would. Used to express desired subject of action, but which didn't happen:

I wouldn't have done it. But I was so young.
I didn't want to do this. But then I was still so young.
I would have come, but I got stuck in traffic.
I would have come, but I was stuck in traffic.

Conclusion

Modal verbs are easy to learn and understand, since they have many similarities with the native Russian language. Although there are some differences. In any case, they will be a good help in moving forward for anyone who wants to improve their knowledge of the English language.

Big and friendly EnglishDom family

We often come across modal verbs even in Russian, without suspecting that they belong to the modal class. So, first of all, you need to understand the concept of “modal verbs”.

Modal are those verbs that show not an action or state, but your attitude to the subject of conversation. This list includes words expressing permission, necessity, order, possibility/impossibility. There is a small percentage of modal verbs in the English language, but even beginners sometimes encounter problems when using them. As a rule, this is due to shades of meaning of verbs. It is not difficult to get confused in their abundance, but after reading the article, you will be able to mentally divide the modal verbs of the English language into groups convenient for learning and actively use them in written and spoken speech.

Getting to know modal verbs

Character traits

Since modal verbs express only the speaker’s attitude to what is being discussed, they are used in pairs with a semantic verb.

She can talk with you. - She can talk with you.

These verbs do not have finite forms - the same form is used for all pronouns, i.e. in the sentence above we can change she(she) to any other person. Also, modal verbs do not have a gerund (a verb ending in ing) or a participle.

In interrogative sentences, the modal verb comes first, no auxiliary elements are required!

You must know everything. –You must know All.
Must you know everything? —Do you have to know everything?

In negative sentences, after modal verbs they simply put the particle not (in the abbreviated version n’t).

We needn’ t to check our car. “We don’t need to check our car.”

The next paragraph will discuss in detail the most popular modal verbs in the English language.

Modal verbs in practice

Despite the apparent abundance of these verbs, not all of them are used in speech. In addition, the most popular - must, can and may - have a common meaning and can replace other modal verbs. However, when using modal verbs in English, no one has canceled the rules. When choosing a modal verb when constructing speech, oral or written, pay attention to the shade of meaning you want to convey and the tense of the verb.

Below is a table of modal verbs in English , which will greatly facilitate the fate of both beginners and those continuing to learn the language.

Let us dwell in more detail on each of the verbs, specifying their features. The negative form of the verb and its meaning are given through a slash.

1) must/mustn’t

Meaning:
a) obligation – must, must (in the opinion of the speaker);
b) assumption – there must be;
c) prohibition - impossible.

a) You must keep your room tidy. - You must maintain order in the room.

b) It must be delicious. –This, must be , tasty. (Present Simple - simple present tense)
She must have caught a cold. - She, there must be, caught a cold.(Present Perfect - present completed tense)

c) You mustn't feed the monkeys at the zoo. –It is forbidden feed monkeys V zoo.

Features: the modal verb must has no forms in either the past or future tenses. In such cases we replace it with have to:

He had to walk his dog yesterday. - Yesterday he had walk your dog.

2) have to / don’t have to

Meaning:
a) obligation – must, forced, has to (due to external circumstances);
b) absence of obligations – should not, optional.

a) She has to take care of her ill father. –She forced take care O sick father.

b) We don't have to wear uniform at school on Saturdays. –By Saturdays us not necessary walk V school V form.

Features: have to only expresses a modal meaning, but is not modal itself, therefore it is subject to general rules in all tenses.

3) be to / not be to

Meaning:
a) obligation – must, agreed (by some general agreement);
b) prohibition – should not.

a) Tonight you are to read a tale to children. –Today You By agreement you're reading fairy tale children.

b) This film is not to have been shown twice. - This movie shouldn't have show a second time.

Features: to be to in the modal meaning is subject to the same rules as to the regular verb to be. In the future tense it is not used to express modality, so in this case we use have to:

What will I have to do tomorrow? –What I must will do Tomorrow?

4)can/can’t

Meaning:
a) ability to perform an action – I can, I am able (possibility);
b) permission – is it possible, is it possible (request for permission in the question);
c) inability – I can’t, I don’t know how;
d) prohibition – impossible, not allowed.

a) You can climb up the trees. –You you know how climb By trees.

b) You can take another piece of cake. –Can take more piece cake.
Can we help you? - We Can Can I help you with something?

c) She can ’ t draw anything. - She generally can not nothing to draw.

d) But you can ’ t open this red door. - But it is forbidden open only this red door.

Features: in the future tense, to express the meaning “will be able to do” you should use the construction to be able to:

He won't be able to get permission. –He will be able get permission.

5)could/couldn't

Meaning: past tense form of can;
a) opportunity in the past – could, could (missed opportunity);
b) polite request for permission - is it possible;
c) proposal - something can be done;
d) couldn’t (it wasn’t possible).

a) Sarah could go to the university last year. – Sarah could went to university last year.

b) Could I sit here? –Can I I'll sit down here?

With) We could go playing billiards. –We Can go play V billiards.

d) He couldn't have disappeared! –He Not could evaporate!

Features: the specified verb is not suitable for expressing the meaning “could, could not.” In this version, we will take the following construction - be able to.

6) be able to / not be able to

Meaning:
a) the ability to perform an action - to be able to do something, be able to, capable (because you have everything you need);
b) inability to perform an action – cannot, is not capable of, cannot.

a) He has been able to win the competition. –He smog win V competitions.

b) We weren't able to play basketball in childhood.As children we didn't know how play basketball.

Features: changes in tenses like a regular verb to be

7) shouldn't/shouldn't

Meaning:
a) advice – should, should, must (recommendation with the meaning of obligation);
b) waiting – it’s time, it should;
c) reproach – should have, should have;
d) advice not to do – it’s not worth it, it shouldn’t be done.

a) You should eat more vitamins. - You need to eat more vitamins.

b) You should find a good girl and get married. – It's time you find a good girl and settle down.

c) She should have lost weight. - She's been around for a long time it was time lose weight.

d) They shouldn't’ t spend so much money. - Them do not do it spend so much money.

Features: used with all tenses, the future meaning requires the use of a tense marker.

8) ought to / oughtn’t to

Meaning:
a) advice – must, should (due to moral principles);
b) firm confidence - there must be (with Present Perfect);
c) advice – you shouldn’t, you shouldn’t do this.

a) You ought to tell her everything. –You must All to her tell.

b) They ought to have decided. - They, must be have already made a decision.

With) You not enough to offend your little sister. –Not necessary offend my little sister.

Features: not used in official statements, it is an analogue of the more commonly used should.

9) need to/ needn’t to (don’t need to)

Meaning:
a) necessity – necessary, required;
b) lack of need - not necessary

Features: in the case of this verb, the nuances should be discussed in advance. The verb need can be either regular (vary in all tenses, require the presence of an auxiliary), or purely modal - in the second version it is used only in the present tense. As a correct need, it is used to express a general need; as a modal, it is used to express a particular need.

a) He need to work at weekends. –To him need to work By on days off. (private need)

b) Girls don ’ t need to make up – they are so beautiful! – For girls no need put on makeup, they are already beautiful!

10) will (shall) / won’t (shan’t)

Meaning:
a) probability of action in the future - I will do, I will do;
b) lack of probability of action in the future - I won’t do it, I won’t do it.

a) I will go to Spain in the summer. –In summer I I'll go V Spain.
Shall we go home? – Shouldn't I go should we go home?

b) She won ’ t play the golf tomorrow. - She will not play golf tomorrow.

Features: shall (shan’t) is used only for the 1st person (I, we) in questions and negations.

11) would/wouldn't

Meaning: a) expression of future meaning in the past (in the subordinate part of complex sentences); b) conditional mood – would do; c) polite offer or invitation; d) unwillingness to do something

a) She said she would come round. – She said, What will come in V guests .

b) If you were fat, you would look like our uncle. –If b You was fat man, That looked would How our uncle.

c) Would you like to join us? – Want to join us?

d) I tried but he wouldn't ’ t agree . - I tried, but he didn't agree at all.

Features: the verb would often replaces will in questions, as a more polite and colloquial form.

12) may / may not

Meaning:
a) formal permission – possible;
b) low confidence – maybe;
c) prohibition – refusal of permission.

a) May I come in? –Can whether I to come in?

b) It may be cold in the evening. –In the evening Maybe be Cold.

c) You may not eat in the library. –It is forbidden eat V library.

Features: used only in the present tense, is a more formal version of the verb can.

13) might / might not

Meaning:
a) low confidence – maybe;
b) formal permission – possible;
c) reproach – could (with Present Perfect);
d) weak confidence (cannot).

a) They might – Maybe , They will come.

b) Might we play the computer? – Can should we play on the computer?

c) You might have opened the door for me. –Could would to me And open.

d) It might not be true. - This hardly looks like the truth.

Features: compared to may, might expresses a very low degree of confidence.

To summarize, I would like to remind you once again: choose a modal verb depending on the meaning and do not forget about the tense of the predicate.

To master the rules of using modal verbs, be sure to practice through tests, exercises and speaking. If any aspects related to the above grammatical topic are not covered in this article, be sure to write about it in the comments!

English verbs are very diverse. To make them convenient to study, the English language divides verbs into groups and even subgroups. So, for example, according to their meaning, verbs can be divided into semantic and auxiliary. The latter ones contain auxiliary verbs, linking verbs and modal verbs. Today we will talk about the last group and study what modal verbs are in English, what their types are, how they are formed and used in speech.

Modal verbs or modal verbs in English are verbs that do not have their own meaning and are used to express modality, that is, the speaker’s attitude to any action. Accordingly, they can only be used in conjunction with another verb.

Modal verbs in English are used quite often in speech, and therefore you need to know them in order to give sentences a special meaning. Now, having considered the general definition, we can move on to a more detailed development of this topic.

In principle, there is no need to form a modal verb. You won't have to memorize the conjugation of modal verbs for a long time, for the simple reason that they have almost no conjugation. Yes, some modal verbs can change according to tense, but they do not change according to persons and numbers. Despite the fact that this fact greatly facilitates the use of such English verbs, it can cause some confusion when composing sentences, so let's take a closer look at this point.

If you take any modal verb, all you have to do is put it before the noun/pronoun. Since the noun has no declension in English, this should not be a problem. After the modal, a regular verb in the infinitive without the particle to is required:

Often, based on this rule, at the initial stage there may be a desire to put the ending - s (-es) to the modal or main verb, but under no circumstances should this be done.

If you don’t want to give up so easily and want to add this ending at least somewhere, the only exception has been made for you in the form of the modal verb have to. When conjugated, the verb have in the modal form changes in persons and numbers in the same way as in the present tense:

Speaking of endings, it is also worth noting that modal verbs, in accordance with the rules of the English language, do not have the form , so the ending –ing cannot be attached to them. This applies to absolutely all verbs, even such a non-typical one as have to.

They also do not require any auxiliary verbs in front of them in negative and interrogative sentences. Although in this case the modal verb have to is again an exception.

These were all the features of modal verbs in English that should not be forgotten when composing sentences in English.

Modal verbs in English: sentence forms

The way modal verbs are used in different sentence forms is almost identical to auxiliary verbs. Let's study the forms on the tables:

Affirmative sentences with a modal verb

To construct an affirmative sentence with a modal verb, the modal verb is placed before the subject. The semantic verb is placed after the modal verbs. These two types of verbs are used together as a compound verb predicate:

The example above is used with Active Voice. However, the passive voice with modal verbs is also quite common in speech. For the passive voice (Passive Voice), the verb be is added to the sentence with a modal verb, which is placed between the modal and main:

To modal verbs that are used in the Perfect tense, a third form of the verb to be – has been added in the passive voice:

Negative sentences with modal verb

The negative English form is identical except that the modal verb has a negative particle not:

As in the affirmative form, here you can also make sentences in the passive voice. Example of passive voice in a negative sentence:

Interrogative sentences with modal verb

The interrogative form is formed based on the type of question:

• Common questions use a modal verb before the subject:

“Passive” forms are also used in interrogative sentences. Let's consider this “passive” form using the example of a general question:

It doesn’t matter whether the sentence is “active” or “passive”, it is enough to answer this question briefly:

An exception to the rule is the modal verb have (has) to, which requires the auxiliary verb do (does) to form the interrogative form:

• In an alternative question, any second member of the sentence for choice and the conjunction or (or) are added:

This question needs to be answered in full:

• To form a special question, a question word is added to general questions at the beginning:

Questions like this also require a complete answer:

• In disjunctive questions, the form of an affirmative or negative sentence is retained, to which a short question is added:

This question needs to be answered briefly:

In the case of the modal verb have (has) to, a short question is constructed using an auxiliary verb:

List of modal verbs, their meaning and use

Let's move directly to modal verbs and their types.

Modal verb Can

Can in the meaning of “to be able”, “to be able” is used to express the possibility of performing an action. One of the most common and frequently used modal verbs. It refers to insufficient verbs, that is, verbs that do not have all forms. The modal verb itself has two forms:

• For the present tense, can is used;
• The past tense and the subjunctive mood correspond to could.

When negated, a negative particle is usually added to this English modal verb, but, unlike other cases, it is written together:

To tell the truth, very often there is disagreement on this issue: people argue that the standard form also applies. Therefore, if you are not sitting for an exam, but are simply corresponding with a person, writing separately will not be perceived as something wrong.

Sometimes, separate writing is even necessary when not is part of another structure. Most often this construction is “not only..., but also” (not only..., but also). To make it clearer, let's look at two examples:

If the can in negation is not part of the construction, and you don’t want to accidentally make a mistake, you can simply use the shortened form in everyday speech and “informal” writing:

Most often, this modal verb expresses mental or physical activity:

It can also denote the general or theoretical probability of an action occurring:

Can is also used to express a request. In this case, you can use both can and could. True could will sound more polite and formal:

A modal verb can be used to ask, allow or prohibit something to be done:

And also to express surprise, reproach or disbelief:

Modal verb to be able to

If you want to express cases with can in the future tense, you need to use another probability verb - to be able to (to be able / able to do). It is almost equivalent to the verb can, but in the present and past tense its use is more formal. In these tenses, the modal verb to be able to is more often used to express that a person managed to do something, he coped / succeeded. This modal verb changes for persons, numbers and tenses:

Modal verb May

Modal verbs that express probability also include the verb may in the meaning “allow”, “it is possible”. It also has two forms:

• May for present;
• Might for past tense and subjunctive mood.

In negation, both forms have abbreviations:

This verb is used in the same cases as can, but may is more formal:

To ask or give permission:

Modal verb be allowed to

An analogue of the modal verb may is the modal verb be allowed to in the meaning of “permission”. This verb is used to show that permission has been given without specifying by whom it was given. Since the verb to be changes in tenses, numbers and persons, the same changes apply to the modal verb be allowed to. Let's look at a table with examples of use:

Modal verb Must

The modal verb must means “must”. In negative form it has the shortened form:

Mainly used to:

Express an obligation, a need:

Express an order or prohibition:

And an expression of confidence:

Modal verb have to

Since must does not have a past or future tense, the modal verb have (has) to is used instead in such cases:

The modal verb have to (have got to) is used in the meaning of “have to”, “must”. In addition to the above-mentioned case, it is also used independently, without replacing the verb must. It is usually used to show that some action must be done because it is “necessary”, and not because it is wanted:

Do not forget that have to (have got to) changes according to numbers, persons and tenses:

The difference between must and have to in this case is determined by the fact that:

• Using must, we feel/realize obligation. We need to do something:

That is, we decided that something would be our “rule” and we would definitely follow it.

• By using have to, we mean that we do not want to do something, but we have to due to circumstances:

However, speakers often replace have to must with the form.

You may have noticed that the verb have to can also be used as have got to. The difference between these modal verbs is minor:

• Have got to implies a specific action:

• Have to implies a repeated action:

Modal verb should

The modal verb should means “must”, “should”. Short form in negation:

This modal verb is used to:

Express a moral obligation:

Give advice:

This time can also be found in the instructions:

Modal verb ought to

Modal verb ought to, which means the same as the verb should. However, it is used much less frequently. This modal verb has only one form. To use it, the to particle is required. It also has a contraction in negation:

This modal verb is used to express advice and obligations:

Modal verb shall and will

Modal verbs shall and will, which combine modal meaning and the meaning of future tenses. They also have shortened forms in negation:

Shall is used to express a proposal to do something:

The modal verb will is used in English to express promise and insistence. Also, the modal verb will can be found in interrogative sentences that imply orders:

Modal verb be to

Modal verb be to to express obligation. Used in past and present tenses. When using it, you should always use a particle

Used to:

Express actions that are performed according to a specific schedule:

For actions that are predefined:

To express a prohibition or impossibility:

Modal verb would

The modal verb would, usually used for polite requests and suggestions. Do not confuse would in the sense of “would” and would be a modal verb.

In English, the modal verb would also has a shortened negative form:

Table with examples:

Would is also used to make assumptions:

It's worth noting that in English there are certain verbs that are often called semi-modal. Semimodal verbs are verbs that can serve two functions in a sentence. On the one hand, they can be used in the form of main verbs, which are preceded by an auxiliary verb in questions and negations. On the other hand, they can be words expressing the properties of modal verbs. These verbs include:

Modal verb used to

The modal verb used to is a verb whose modality is often debated. It is used only to express past situations and only in one case.

Among the features of this time, the variants of its formation for denial and question:

This verb is used to express an action/state that happened in the past. When translated into Russian, such sentences may have the adverb “before”:

Modal verb need

Another semi-modal verb is the verb need, which denotes the need to perform an action. Short form of negation:

Usually replaces the modal verbs must and have to in negative and interrogative sentences.

Used in affirmative sentences to mean “need”:

Also used in questions when you want to hear a negative answer:

In its meaning, the modal verb dare does not differ from the semantic verb dare. The only difference is that the modal verb dare does not require the use of auxiliary verbs.

Modal verb let

The semimodal group also includes the verb let. Let as a modal verb in English is used to mean “let”, “permit”, “permit”. If the verb is used as a semantic one, it practically does not change its meaning.

Modal verbs in English: additional uses

Let's consider a few more points about the use of modal verbs:

1. All of the above verbs can be used in indirect speech. However, there are a number of nuances here:

• Some modal verbs do not change in indirect speech. These include could, might, should, would, ought to. Example:

• Modal verbs that change include:

1. It is also worth noting that modal verbs can be used with a perfect infinitive.

• Can + Perfect Infinitive to show that a person does not believe an action that has already happened. Could + Perfect Infinitive is used in the same meaning, but in a less solid form.
• May + Perfect Infinitive expresses uncertainty about the event. Might + Perfect Infinitive – even less confidence.
• Must + Perfect Infinitive shows confidence or speaks about the likelihood of performing an action in the past.
• Need + Perfect Infinitive questions the wisdom of the action taken.
• Ought + Perfect Infinitive expresses reproach for past actions.
• Will + Perfect Infinitive shows determination to carry out an action until a certain point in the future.
• Would + Perfect Infinitive is used to express an action that one wanted to carry out, but did not succeed.
• Should + Perfect Infinitive expresses an action that should have been performed in the past, but was not performed.

Note that in both English and the Russian translation, with the exception of will, the perfect modal verb implies the past tense.

Let's look at a few examples:

You can write as much about modal verbs as there is space. However, the briefly presented information about each modal verb should be enough to fully master this topic of English grammar. Modal verbs, expressing a whole range of feelings, are indeed used very often. This means that they must be learned and used correctly to be able to express their thoughts. If you encounter difficulties, return to the rules above, make up your own examples and practice English, devoting as much time as possible to the language.

Modal verbs in English, these are verbs that in themselves do not denote an action or state, but reflect, as they say in textbooks, “the speaker’s attitude towards the action.”

What does it mean? Let's take the verb can(to be able to do something) - in itself it does not denote an action or state, like the verbs “fly”, “see”, “get scared”. But in combination with another verb it denotes the same attitude to action - in this case it is ability perform an action.

I can fix your TV in two minutes – I Can fix your TV in two minutes.

I can swim in cold water – I Can swim in cold water.

Modal verbs include:

• (could)- be able, be capable.
• - to be due.
• – should, must (e.g. “you should...”).
• (might)– expresses that there is permission (e.g. “I can…”)

Note: This article covers the most common modal verbs.

Why is it important to know modal verbs?

Modal verbs are used VERY often in spoken and written speech. Especially - it is one of the 10 most common verbs in the English language (see) and almost no conversation can take place without it.

In addition to the basic meanings, it is useful to know the basic nuances of using modal verbs. For example, in the phrase “You must help Bill” verb must expresses an obligation: “You must help Bill.” And in the sentence “You must be Bill” the same must has a completely different meaning: “You must be Bill.”

Features of modal verbs

Modal verbs are a special group of verbs (fortunately, very small in number) that live according to their own separate rules. Here are their main features.

1. Modal verbs in English are used with a semantic verb in, and the particle to is not placed between verbs.

Right:

• I canbuy you a candy – I Can buy candy for you.
• I mustdecline your offer – I must reject your suggestion.

Wrong:

• I can tobuy you a candy.
• I must todecline your offer.

2. Modal verbs are not conjugated, no endings are added to them, including the ending -s in the third person singular.

Right:

• He can walk on a wire. - He can walk on a tightrope.
• She must go. - She must go.

Wrong:

• He cans walk on a wire.
• She musts go.

3. Modal verbs are not used in the future tense with an auxiliary verb.

In most cases, modal verbs can refer to action in the future, this becomes clear from the context.

• I can help you tomorrow. - I I can (I can) help you tomorrow.
• We must get back home by midnight. - We must be back home by midnight.
• He may pass his exam later with another group. - He may (can) take the exam later with another group.
• You should ask her out tomorrow. - You should invite her somewhere tomorrow.

4. The verbs can and may have past tense forms.

These forms are respectively:

I also note that should is the past tense form of a modal verb shall, which is used quite rarely in modern English, see.

5. The interrogative form is formed without an auxiliary verb - the modal verb is placed before the subject:

• I can drive - Can I drive?
• She could help us – Could she help us?
• We must go - Must are we going?
• I may ask - May I ask?
• You should try - Should I try?

6. The negative form is formed with the help of the particle not; it is placed after the modal verb (and is written together with the verb can). In colloquial speech, negative forms are usually shortened.

• cannot – can’t
• could not – couldn’t
• may not – may not
• might not – mightn’t
• shouldn't – shouldn't
• must not – mustn’t

Note:

Mustnot has not the opposite must meaning. For example:

You must not- does not mean “must not”, that is, “you have no obligation” (here “you don’t have to”), but “you cannot”, “you are prohibited”, “forbidden”. In Russian, sentences with a prohibition expressed as must not are often translated into impersonal sentences.

• You mustn't enter that room – To you forbidden go into that room.
• You mustn't smoke here – Here prohibited smoke.

May not also has the meaning of prohibition, but softer than must not.

• You may not go there - to you it is forbidden go there.
• You may not touch it – to you it is forbidden it's touching.

Cannot can mean both physical impossibility, inability, and a ban in a mild form.

• You can't take in all those kittens. - You can not shelter all these kittens (this is impossible).
• You can't park here – Here it is forbidden park (this is prohibited).

Synonyms of modal verbs

Modal verbs have non-modal synonyms that are conjugated according to general rules.

These are the synonyms:

• Can = be able to (be able)
• Must = have to (to be due)
• May = be allowed to (have permission)
• Should = be supposed to (imply, be due) - not in all cases.

Modal verbs are considered insufficient - this means that they do not have a future tense form, some (must) do not have a past tense form. Using synonyms you can replace missing forms of modal verbs.

Replacing a modal verb with a synonym is not entirely complete and accurate. For example, must can mean moral necessity, duty, and have to can mean forced necessity.

I must help my parents. - I must help your parents (duty, obligation).

My colleague is being late for the meeting, I have to wait for him. – My colleague is late for a meeting, I must(I have to) wait for him.

Basic uses of modal verbs

Modal verb Can (could)

The verb can is used for:

1. Expressions of opportunity, ability to do something, question, polite request:

Can is used in the present and future tenses, and could in the past tense.

Present tense:

I can show you new world - I Can show you a new world.

I can't believe it! – I can not believe it!

In interrogative form the request is:

Can I help you? - Can can I help you?

Can do you do me a favour? - You you can do me a favor?

Sentences with the negative form can’t can express not only impossibility, but also a prohibition:

You can't move this stone. - You can not move this stone (it's too heavy).

You can't walk on the grass. – It is forbidden walking on the grass (this is prohibited).

Past tense:

He could play guitar - He knew how to play the guitar.

I couldn't forgive him - I couldn't forgive him.

Interrogative sentences with could express a polite request towards a second person. More polite than with can.

Could do you pass me that book? – Could you will you pass me that book?

Future– the verb can does not change in any way, its relation to the future is clear from the context:

I can talk to you later. - I I can (I can) talk to you later.

James can fix your car tomorrow. – James may (can) fix your car tomorrow.

2. “It can’t be that...”

This combination is also used in negative sentences when the speaker does not believe, does not allow the possibility that the action actually happened. When translating such phrases into Russian, the words “can’t be”, “couldn’t”, “really” are usually used.

Lara cannot have done it! – Lara I could not such do!

No, he cannot have said it! - No he could not such say!

Can she have said it? – Really she is said?

Modal verb Must

1. Ought (to be obliged to do something)

You must be Peter - You, there must be, Peter.

These must be his footsteps - This is, there must be, his traces.

You should have turned left! - You had to turn left! (and turned right)

You should have seen this place! - You needed to see this place! (but you didn’t see)

3. “In theory it should”

At the verb should there is also the meaning “in theory should”, that is, there is some expected, intended action, but it may not be carried out. In this case, the turnover is more often used be supposed to.

I should (am supposed to) be at work now, but the show is so damn interesting – I must be (supposedly) at work now, but this series is damn interesting.

Doctors say that we should (are supposed to) exercise if we want to stay healthy – Doctors say that we need to(we are supposed to) exercise to stay healthy.

Modal verb May (might)

1. Have permission, permission

In present and future tense

You may do what you want – You can do what you want (present tense).

You may play with your friends later. – You can play with your friends later (future tense)

May I ask you a question? – Can(can) I ask you a question?

In a negative form may not expresses a prohibition:

You may not play with them. - You it is forbidden playing with them (I forbid it).

In the past time to express permission, it is not the verb might that is used (it expresses an assumption, see below), but the phrase be allowed to- have permission.

I was allowed to continue working on my project. - To me allowed continue working on my project.

We were not allowed to wear uniform. - Us not allowed wear a uniform.

2. Assumption

The verb used to make a guess is may or might, in this case it is translated as “possibly”, “maybe”, etc. The difference between may and might is that may expresses the speaker’s greater confidence in the assumption. However, this difference may be highly context dependent or may not be significant.

Present and future tense

Scheme: May / might + infinitive (without to)

You might know that place – You, Maybe, you know this place (present tense).

He may visit us tonight – He, May be, will visit us in the evening (future tense).

Past tense:

Scheme: May / might + have + Past Participle

She might have forgotten the documents at home. - She, maybe I forgot documents at home.

I may have seen you before. - I, may have seen you before.

Video lessons on modal verbs

In the grammar section of Puzzle English there are several video lessons on the topic of modal verbs, here is the first one: “The Verb Can”.

By going to the “Grammar” section on the Puzzle English service, you can watch the rest of the video lessons (they are available for free), as well as complete the exercises.