Page 54 - English Grammar - 6

Let’s Learn Modal Verbs

The modal verbs are included in the auxiliary to show ability, possibility or permission.
They are used with a main verb which is in the present tense.

The main modal verbs are can, will, shall, ought to, must, need, and may.
Read the following sentences.

I can have tea without sugar.
l
I will take a walk after dinner.
l
He shall try to overcome this problem.
l
We all ought to help him with it.
l
You must come on time or leave the job.
l
We need to push together to move this big stone.
l
I may come this evening or tomorrow morning.
l
Can

is used to request something.

Can you help me with the dishes?
l
Can you show me how to do this?
l
Can we try to come to a solution?
l
is used to request and grant permission.

Can I drive your new car?
l
You can take it, but please drive carefully.
l
is used to state ability.

I can eat five burgers for lunch.
l
She can speak Hindi, English, French, and German.
l

Will/Shall
Will/Shall is used to state or predict that an event or an action will take place in the future.

If it stops raining, we will be able to play in the park.
l
If I come home early, I shall drive you to town.
l
I shall try my best to come within an hour.
l While returning, I shall pick up the groceries.
Verbs May/Might
l

It is used to make a request, an offer or a suggestion. It is also used to give or deny permission.

May I see that drawing once more?
l
If I get up early, I might be able to accompany you.
l

52