Modal Verbs in English: Can, May, Might, Should, Must, Have To, and Be Allowed To

Modal Verbs in English

1. Expressing Possibility

a) Can

Used to express the ability or possibility of doing something in the present tense.

Examples:

• I can speak English.
• You can smoke here.
• You can come now if you want.

b) May

Used to indicate possibility in the present or future. The situation is more likely to happen than with 'might'.

Examples:

• He may arrive (it's possible he will arrive).
• I may go to the mall (I am considering going to the mall).

c) Might

Used to express prediction or possibility in the present or future, but less certain than 'may'.

Examples:

• In the future, employees might not retire at the age of 65.

2. Expressing Obligation and Advice

a) Should

Used to give advice or make suggestions.

Examples:

• You should visit your friend. He is sick.
• You shouldn't travel tomorrow.
• Should you work tomorrow? Yes, I should.
• Should you travel tomorrow? No, I shouldn't.

b) Must

Used to express subjective obligation. It expresses what the speaker thinks is necessary.

Examples:

• I must stop smoking.
• I mustn't smoke.
• Must you go to the doctor? Yes, I must.
• Must you buy cigarettes today? No, I mustn't (prohibition).

c) Have to

Used to express objective obligation imposed from outside (laws, rules).

Examples:

• I have to start work at 8.
• I don't have to arrive late.
• Do you have to attend a meeting? Yes, I do.
• Do you have to write a report? No, I don't (there is no obligation).

d) Be Allowed to

Used to express permission to do something.

Examples:

• I am allowed to take my holidays in February.
• I am not allowed to take my holidays in March.
• Are you allowed to use the internet at work? Yes, I am.
• Are the students allowed to eat in the library? No, they aren't.