modal verbs can, could, will, would, may, might, must, should

Summary

This video explains the use of modal verbs in English, focusing on their roles in expressing ability, requests, permissions, possibility, necessity, and recommendations. Key modal verbs such as 'can', 'could', 'will', 'would', 'may', 'might', 'must', and 'should' are discussed with examples. The video highlights common mistakes, such as using 'to' after a modal verb, and emphasizes the use of simple verb forms following modals. Additionally, it covers negative forms and contractions, along with the specific rules for each modal verb to improve understanding and usage.

Takeaways

• 😀 Modal verbs are used to talk about conditions, situations, requests, ability, opportunities, and more.
• 😀 The modal verb 'can' is used to talk about ability and requests.
• 😀 The modal verb 'could' is the past form of 'can' and is used to talk about ability and requests.
• 😀 The modal verb 'will' is used to talk about the future and when volunteering to help someone.
• 😀 The modal verb 'would' is the past form of 'will' and is used for polite requests and situations.
• 😀 Use 'may' when asking for permission or talking about possibility.
• 😀 The modal verb 'might' is used to describe possibility, expressing uncertainty or doubt.
• 😀 'Must' is used when something is necessary or when expressing a belief that something is true.
• 😀 'Should' is used when recommending something or when something is considered a good idea.
• 😀 After a modal verb, the main verb should always be in its simple form, without 'to'.
• 😀 Modal verbs can be made negative by using 'not' after the modal verb. Most modal verbs can be contracted (e.g., can't, wouldn't), except 'may' and 'must'.

Q & A

What are modal verbs used for?

Modal verbs are used to talk about conditions, situations, requests, ability, and opportunities.

What is the main use of the modal verb 'can'?

'Can' is used to talk about ability and to make requests.

How is 'could' different from 'can'?

'Could' is used for past ability and requests, and it is the past form of 'can'.

When is the modal verb 'will' used?

'Will' is used to talk about the future and when volunteering to help somebody.

What is the purpose of using 'would' as a modal verb?

'Would' is used for polite requests and situations, and it is the past form of 'will'.

When should you use 'may'?

'May' is used when asking for permission or talking about possibility.

What does the modal verb 'might' express?

'Might' is used to describe possibility.

When is 'must' used?

'Must' is used when something is necessary or when you believe something is true.

What is the function of the modal verb 'should'?

'Should' is used when suggesting something as a good idea or making a recommendation.

What rule applies to the main verb after using a modal verb?

After a modal verb, the main verb should be in its simple form (base form) without using 'to'.