Mastering Modal Verbs in English: Can, Could, May, Might, Must, Should, and Would

Modal verbs are small but powerful words in English that express ability, possibility, necessity, advice, and permission. They don’t change form (no -s, -ing, or -ed) and are always followed by the base form of a verb.

Here’s a simple guide to the most common modal verbs with examples:

1. Can

• Ability: I can swim.
• Possibility: You can win.
• Permission: Can I use your phone?

👉 Use “can” when talking about what is possible, what you are able to do, or when asking for permission.

2. Could

• Past Ability: I could run fast.
• Possibility: It could snow tomorrow.
• Polite Request: Could you pass the salt?

👉 “Could” is the past form of “can” but also softens requests and expresses possibility.

3. May

• Permission: You may leave now.
• Possibility: It may rain later.

👉 “May” is formal and polite when giving permission, and it also expresses possibility.

4. Might

• Possibility: We might miss the train.

👉 “Might” is similar to “may,” but it often suggests a weaker possibility.

5. Must

• Necessity/Obligation: You must wear a seatbelt.
• Assumption: She must be the new teacher.

👉 “Must” expresses strong necessity or logical deduction.

6. Should

• Advice: You should exercise.
• Expectation: The train should arrive soon.

👉 “Should” is softer than “must” and is often used for recommendations or expressing expectations.

7. Would

• Hypothetical: I would travel if I were rich.
• Polite Offer: Would you like coffee?

👉 “Would” is common in polite offers and in conditional or hypothetical situations.

✅ Quick Tips for Using Modals:

• Always use the base verb after a modal (e.g., can go, must eat, should study).
• Modals don’t take “-s” for third person (not he cans, but he can).
• They make your English sound more natural, polite, and precise.

✨ Master these modal verbs, and you’ll express yourself more clearly in English conversations and writing!