Modal Example Uses
They can swim. Ability
Smoking can cause cancer. Possibility
Can We can’t fix it. Inability / Impossibility
Can I smoke here? Asking for permission
Can you help me? Request
Could I borrow your dictionary? Asking for permission (polite)
Could you say it again more slowly? Request (polite)
We could try to fix it ourselves. Suggestion
Could
It could rain tomorrow. Future possibility
He gave up his old job so he could work for us. Ability in the past
Jack could not have the key Impossible
May I have another cup of coffee? Asking for permission (+polite)
May You may leave the table now that you're finished with your dinner. Give permission
China may become a major economic power. Future possibility/probability
Might We'd better phone tomorrow, they might be eating their dinner now. Present possibility
They might give us a 10% discount.
Future possibility
Jack might not have the key
Improbable
You must take some time off and get some rest. Strong recommendation
We must say good-bye now. Strong Obligation
Must You must have a permit to enter the national park. requirement
They mustn’t disrupt the work more than necessary. Prohibition
He must be very tired. He's been working all day long. Logical conclusion / Certainty
Shall I help you with your luggage? Offer
Shall (I, we) Shall we say 2.30 then? Suggestion
Shall I do that or will you? Asking what to do
We should sort out this problem at once. Saying what’s right or correct
I think we should check everything again. Recommendation
Should
Profits should increase next year. Uncertain prediction/expectation
I should be at work before 9:00. something between recommendation and
obligation: "Be supposed to"
Ought to We ought to employ a professional writer. Saying what’s right or correct
I can’t see any taxis so I’ll walk. Instant decisions
I'll do that for you if you like. Offer
Will
I’ll get back to you first thing on Monday. Promise
Profits will increase next year. Prediction
Would you mind if I brought a colleague with me? Asking for permission (+polite)
Would you pass the salt please? / Would you mind waiting a Request
moment?
Making arrangements
Would
"Would three o`clock suit you?" - "That’d be fine."
Invitation
Would you like to play golf this Friday?
Preferences
"Would you prefer tea or coffee?" - "I’d like tea please."
