Modals & Conditionals Intermediate · 10 min

Modal Verbs

Express ability, permission, advice, obligation, and possibility with modal verbs.

Rule Example · Practice
Grammar lesson

Modal Verbs

Modal verbs include can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, and would.

A modal verb is followed by the base form of the main verb.

AbilityShe can swim.
AdviceYou should rest.
ObligationWe must leave now.
PossibilityIt might rain later.

Do not add -s to a modal verb in the third person singular.

Quick review

Before you continue

  • Understand when the structure is used.
  • Recognise the sentence pattern.
  • Create your own example.
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