What Are Modal Verbs?
Modal verbs are helping verbs that are used along with main verbs to represent the
ability, possibility and probability of a subject to do an action and emphasise the
necessity of an action.
Examples of Modal Verbs
Let us look at some examples of modal verbs used as auxiliary verbs and their functions.
Modal Function
Verb
Can Used to denote the ability of the subject to
perform an action or to request permission to
perform an action
Could Used to denote the ability of the subject to
perform an action or an offer made by the
subject to perform an action
May Used to denote the probability of an action
taking place or to request permission to perform
an action
Might Used to denote the probability of an action
taking place or to make suggestions
Will Used to denote the surety of an action taking
place or the assurance of the subject to perform
a particular action
Would Used to show politeness when requesting or
asking if an action can be done by the subject.
Shall Used to denote the surety of an action taking
place or the assurance of the subject to perform
a particular action
Should Used to denote the necessity of an action to be
done by the subject
Must Used to denote the strong obligation or
necessity for the subject to do or not do an
action
Ought to Used to denote the obligation of the subject to
perform a particular action
How to Use Modal Verbs in Sentences
Given below are a few examples of how modal verbs can be used to indicate the
possibility or probability of an action taking place.
• It might rain in the evening.
• I think they will reach Coimbatore by 8 pm.
• Can you pick up my brother from school on your way home tomorrow?
• I could make some time to help you with your assignments.
• Your friends may come to visit you next week.
• It would not be possible for you to complete all of it by tomorrow evening.
Here are some examples of modal verbs being used to show the necessity and
obligation of the subject to perform a particular set of actions.
• All students of this institution ought to abide by the rules and instructions
provided.
• All employees should follow the dress code strictly.
• You must get yourself checked before the situation becomes worse.
• Your sister will have to apply for a leave request if she wants to take a month’s
leave.
Modal verbs can be used to make offers, suggestions and requests. Check out the
examples given below for know-how.
• It would be better if you did it the other way.
• I could help you if you want.
• Shall I bring you some water to drink?
• Could you please pass me the science record?
• Will you please take care of my son for an hour? I have some grocery shopping to
be done.
Test Your Knowledge of Modal Verbs
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate modal verb in the following sentences:
1. ________ you be able to bring your camera when you come?
2. Priya __________ apologise for the confusion that was caused yesterday because
of her carelessness.
3. You _______ finish this first and then start with the other one.
4. ________ I make some tea for you?
5. I ______ make sure to keep everything ready by the time they reach the railway
station.
6. You _______ see to it that the students are standing according to their roll numbers.
7. ______ I come in?
8. She _______ find it interesting as she likes reading adventure stories.
9. Do you have any idea how much all of this _______ cost?
10. ______ you please help me find my keys?
Ready to find out if you used the right modal verbs? Let us check.
1. Would you be able to bring your camera when you come?
2. Priya should/ought to apologise for the confusion that was caused yesterday because
of her carelessness.
3. You could finish this first and then start with the other one.
4. Shall I make some tea for you?
5. I will make sure to keep everything ready by the time they reach the railway station.
6. You must see to it that the students are standing according to their roll numbers.
7. Can/Shall/May I come in?
8. She might find it interesting as she likes reading adventure stories.
9. Do you have any idea how much all of this would cost?
10. Can/Would/Could/Will you please help me find my keys?
