Modal verbs (use)
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Use
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Examples
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CAN / COULD/ BE ABLE TO
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Ability
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I couldn't play any instruments last year, now I can play short songs; soon I'll be able to play longer songs. We haven't been able to go on holiday- |
Can (ability in the present)
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Could (ability in the past and
conditional)
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Will be able to (ability in the future)
Have been able to ( perfect tenses)
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CAN /
MAY/ BE ALLOWED TO
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permission
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Ok, you can wear that today, but you won't be allowed to play in the concert without the uniform. I wasn't allowed to play last year. May I have another drink? You may leave when you have completed the exam. |
Can (permission in the present)
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May (permission in the present; slightly more
formal
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Was/were allowed to
Will be allowed to ( permission in other
tenses, future or past)
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Must / have to / need to
Needn't / don't have to
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obligation
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You must log in, but you don't have to create a new password each time. You don't have to wear a uniform. You needn't get there before 11. We need to work harder to pass our exams. |
Mustn't
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prohibition
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You mustn't use mobile phones in class. You mustn't eat too many sweets. |
+ must
could
might
may
_can't
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Certainty and possibility
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The answer might be A,B or C. It can't be C; so it must be A. It must be late, it's getting dark. That can't be true. |
Should / ought to
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advice
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You should go to the dentist. You ought to attend lessons. |
