Modal Meaning Function Example

Can ‫أستطيع‬ Ability My brother is very intelligent. He can speak five

languages.

Could ‫كنت أستطيع‬ Past ability When I was 10 years old, I could play the piano very

well, but now I can't

May ‫ربما‬ Possibility I am not so sure, but if I have some time, I may see you

next week.

Might ‫من المحتمل أن‬ Probability The sky is so cloudy this morning, it might rain this

afternoon.

Must ‫من االلزم أن‬ Obligation When you see the red light, you must stop your car and

wait for the green light

Must ‫من المؤكد أن‬ Certainty This man is always smiling. He must be an optimistic

person.

Have to ‫من الضروري أن‬ Necessity You have to come to the meeting. It's very important.

Need to ‫من الضروري أن‬ Necessity We don't have any food in the fridge. We need to go

shopping in the afternoon.

Needn't ‫ليس من الضروري أن‬ Lack of Necessity You are fine now. You needn't go to the hospital.

Should ‫ينبغي أن‬ Advice You are very sick. You should go visit a doctor.

Ought to ‫ينبغي أن‬ Advice Students ought to revise their lessons because they have

exams.

can't ‫ال يمكن أن‬ Prohibition People can't kiss in public places in our country

mustn't ‫ال يمكن أن‬ Prohibition People mustn't throw waste in the streets.

had to ‫كان البد أن‬ Past obligation I didn't finish my work on time. That's why I had to stay

up late yesterday.