Modal Verbs

Here's a list of the modal verbs in English:

3 ms may might must

2 cs can could

2 ws will would

2 ss shall should

Note! (Rules)

1. They are followed directly by the infinitive of another verb (without 'to'). (e.g. They
should be here)
2. They don't use an 's' for the third person singular. (e.g. John may leave)
3. Negative modal verbs are simply formed by adding "not" after the verb. They NEVER
need other auxiliary verbs such as do, does, did, etc. (e.g. We will not stop).
4. They make questions by inversion (e.g. 'She can go' becomes 'Can she go?').

Meaning of Modals:

 May for probability or polite requests

Peter may pass the driving test.

May you help me with these bags, please?

 Might for possibility

She might not take the bus. She might get a ride from Bill.

 Must for obligation

Children must do their homework.

You must not cross when the light is red. (prohibition)

 Can for ability

She can speak six languages.

I can't drive.

 Could for past ability or permission

My grandfather could play golf very well.

Could I leave early today, please?

 Will for future time or prediction

1
We'll see you tomorrow.
I think it will rain.

 Would for desires or “unreal situations/wishes”

I would like some black coffee.

Ann would kill her husband.

 Shall for suggestion

Shall we go to the cinema tonight? (Let’s go to the cinema)

 Should for advice or necessity

You should stop smoking. It is damaging to your health.

Short Forms:

 In the positive, only will and would can be contracted:

We’ll never get there.
I knew they’d love it.
 Most negative forms of modal verbs can be contracted:

Modal verb Negative Short Form

can cannot can’t

could could not couldn’t

might might not mightn’t

will will not won’t

shall shall not shan’t

would would not wouldn’t

should should not shouldn’t

must must not mustn’t