Modal verbs in English and their equivalents. Modal verbs in English: rules of use

Modal verbs in English are one of the groups of verbs. Their main feature is their modal meaning, that is, the expression of desires, intentions to do some action or necessity. Some modal verbs are also included in the group of auxiliary verbs.

Rules of application

The formation of such a group of verbs is ensured by the need to express a certain area of ​​states: readiness for action, probability, possibility, obligation, ability to do something, confidence in something. In addition, modal verbs in English express obligation (that is, duty), desire for something, and permission to do something.

Modality

Modal verbs are not called that for nothing. The concept of modality implies the attitude of the speaker to the subject. In fact, with the help of modal verbs, the speaker can express his own assessment of an action: he can consider it possible or impossible, necessary or completely unnecessary, prohibited or permitted, unlikely or quite probable, acceptable or unacceptable. He can also consider the action to be an order or a request. As a rule, the study of such verbs is actually included in the third or fourth lesson of the English language. Modal verbs are very often used in everyday speech, so you should pay special attention to them.

Examples of existing verbs

The modal verbs group includes 11 verbs.

Important note: English grammar prohibits using modal verbs on their own. They can only be used with the infinitive of the semantic verb.

Forming verbs

Modal verbs are a special group (translated from English as “defective”). Not all verbs can be inflected in a variety of tense forms. For example, the verb can can be used to form the past and present tenses, but it cannot be used to express actions in the future. It’s the same with the verb may - it cannot be put in the future tense. However, this does not mean that modal verbs in English cannot be used in future tense forms. To express skills and capabilities in the future tense, the verb will (or its obsolete form shall) is used.

The use of this group of verbs also has its good sides. Almost none of the verbs (except have to) change in persons and numbers. That is, in the present tense in the third person, no endings can be added to verbs.

Almost all modal verbs in English do not require the particle to to be placed before the infinitive, but there are exceptions: have to and ought to. Only after these two verbs is it necessary to always put the particle to.

Using verbs in different types of sentences

In an affirmative sentence type, you should use a modal verb after the noun and before the semantic verb. To form a negative type, it is necessary to insert the particle not/n’t after the modal verb (except for the verb have to). In order to form a question, it is necessary to change the order of the noun and modal verb. In this case, there is no need to use any auxiliary verb, since the modal verb takes its place.

Modal Verbs in English: Examples of Common Use

He can wright - He can write.

She will study there - She will study there.

I must do it - I must do this.

He ought to go to the school. - He should go to school.

You don’t have to use mobile phone during the lessons - You should not use the phone during the lessons.

I would like to go to the cinema - I would like to go to the cinema.

Would you like a coffee? - Would you like some coffee?

You should stay home. - You should stay at home.

She ought not to play the computer so much. - She shouldn't play on the computer so much.

She can swim - She can swim.

She can't swim. - She can't swim.

I can run very quickly - I can run very fast.

She can´t run very quickly - She cannot run very fast.

Can she run very quickly? - She can run very fast.

Abbreviations

Quite often in colloquial speech, native speakers prefer to shorten a number of verbs. English is no exception. The modal verbs (table in the article) given below can be used both in full form and in abbreviated form.

Features of the verbcan

This verb is used to express the ability (inability) or opportunity (impossibility) to do something. This verb is translated into Russian as “I can” or “I can.” In addition, this verb is used to express states of doubt or surprise regarding the performance of any action. For example:

My girlfriend canspeak Spanish - My girlfriend can (can) speak Spanish (expressions of ability).

That child can’t swim - That child does not know how (cannot) swim (expression of ability).

He cannot remember you because he doesn’t see you - It cannot be that he remembers you, because he did not see you (expression of doubt).

The modal verb could has an absolutely identical meaning to the verb can, but it is used to express the past tense. For example:

Jon could dance very well - Jon could dance very well.

I couldn’t receive driving license 2 years ago - I couldn’t get a driver’s license 2 years ago.

Some features of modal verbs are considered by the rules of the English language. Modal verbs, for example, can have alternative forms. For the verb can, the alternative verb is to be able to. This form can be used as a synonym for the verb can, and can also be used to express the ability (skill) to perform some action in the future, in contrast to can (which is not used in the future).

For example, in order to translate “I can win competitions next year” into English, you cannot say “I will can win competitions in the next year”, as this would be a blunder. But you can say “I will be able to win competitions in the next year.”

Sometimes it can be quite difficult to translate modal verbs into English. Practicing and learning the rules is the only way to learn how to correctly use a variety of verbs in appropriate situations.

Features of verbs may andmight

These forms can only be used in the present tense. They are not used in the past or future. They are used to demonstrate permission and assumption. Translated into Russian they sound like “I can”, “it is possible”, “may”. For example:

You may smoke in this room - You can smoke in this room.

Elizabeth may know something about that night - Elizabeth may know something about that night.

It may windy today - Today it may be windy.

My parents might come to my home today - My parents might come to my home today.

Jennifer might go to the concert tonight - Jennifer might come to the concert tonight.

In addition, the verb might is used in conditional sentences (type number 2). In such a situation, the verb in Russian will sound “could”, “maybe”. For example:

If Jack had a dog, he might go out twice a day - If Jack had a dog, he could go out for a walk twice a day.

Just like the verb can, the verb may has an alternative form that can be used in past tense sentences. In order to express permission, the combination to be allowed is used (translated into Russian to be allowed, allowed). It can also be used in present and future tense forms. Example:

Gabriel was allowed to come back to home earlier - Gabriel was allowed to return home earlier.

Nina will be allowed to take her child home tomorrow - Nina will be allowed to take her child home tomorrow.

Features of the verb should

The only time this verb can be used today is to express moral advice or duty. The peculiarity of this verb is its origin. It comes from the verb shall, forming the past form.

You should drink aspirin if you feel head pain - You should drink aspirin if you have a headache.

Auxiliary and modal verbs

Some modal forms are also auxiliary verbs. They are necessary in order to form a variety of temporal forms. However, they do not have their own translation. They simply form a variety of grammatical meanings and are markers of tense, number or person. When you encounter one of these verbs, you need to understand what they mean in that context. After all, they can either be used to express desires, intentions, the need to do something, or simply help to form one form or another. These include the verbs to have (have), to do, will (would), shall (should). For example:

Have you ever been in Spain? - Have you ever been to Spain (the verb has absolutely no modal meaning, it is used to form the perfect present tense).

She arrived when film had already started - She arrived when the film had already started (the verb has absolutely no modal meaning, it is used to form the perfect past tense).

I have two old brothers and three old sisters - I have two older brothers and three older sisters (in this case the verb is neither modal nor auxiliary, it simply conveys its direct meaning).

Lessons will start at 8 a.m. - The lesson will start tomorrow at 8 o'clock in the morning (the verb has no modal meaning, it is used as an auxiliary verb forming the future tense form).

If she finishes her homework, they will go to the cafe - If she finishes her homework, they will go to the cafe (the verb is an auxiliary and forms the first form of a conditional sentence).

Modal verbs in English: examples with translation

You must come to the university at 8 o’clock - You must be at the university at 8 o’clock.

My sister must not smoke right now because she catch ill - My sister must not smoke right now because she has a cold.

Nicki shouldn’t do like this - Nicki shouldn’t have done this.

I can play the piano but I can’t swim - I can play the piano, but I can’t swim.

My sister can’t go to the Italy on her own because she is 13 years old - My sister can’t go to Italy on her own because she is only 13 years old.

I will to the USA with my boyfriend in the next year - I will go with my boyfriend to the USA next year.

My girlfriend would like to get a gold ring for her next birthday - My girlfriend would like to get a gold ring for her next birthday.

Modal verbs in the English language are a separate category, which is distinguished by certain features of use, characteristic norms for the formation of temporary constructions with them and specific meanings. The main difference between modal verbs and regular action words is that they do not represent action; the concept of modality provides, first of all, the attitude of the speaker to a particular situation, expressed by the infinitive. It is no secret that any modal is invariably followed by an impersonal verb form, and with some modals not only Indefinite, but also Perfect, Continuous or Perfect Continuous Infinitive are used.

In order to describe the main features that modal verbs of the English language have, you should pay attention to the rules of their use and formation, describe the main functions that these words perform, and also give examples of sentences with them.

Features of Modal Verbs

As already mentioned, modal verbs denote an attitude towards a particular action expressed through an infinitive. In addition to the most popular modal verbs - can, may, must - there are others. Modals (the list of modal verbs includes 12 structures) have the typical features that grammar provides: they are able to independently form questions and negations without resorting to auxiliary words, and always require an infinitive after themselves.

One of the characteristic features is the presence of bare infinitive after modals. The use of to after modal verbs is completely atypical; however, there are three basic words after which these particles are always used: have to, to be to, ought to.

Note: two modals – need and dare – have separate conditions where the bare infinitive rule does not always work. Need, being a British English word, is generally not modal and is used as a regular word; but if we are talking about American English verbs, then the word will be modal. The modal verb dare has a slightly different feature: in principle, it can be both modal (most relevant for interrogative sentences) and non-modal (often observed in negatives). Here are some examples of such sentences with translation:

· You needn’t go there today – Today you don’t need to go there (need here is full)
· You didn’t need to go there – You didn’t need to go there (needed as a simple action)

· How dare you speak to me? - How dare you talk to me? (dare – modal)
· He didn’t dare to speak to me - He didn’t dare to talk to me (simple verb)

Questions and denials

In questions with modal verbs, these words usually come first, and no auxiliary words appear in the sentence:

· Can you come tomorrow? -Can you come tomorrow?
· Should he complete this task? – Should he finish this task?

Negative sentences with modal verbs also differ from ordinary ones: the particle not, as a rule, is added directly to the modal, and not to the helping word:

· You mustn’t smoke here! - You can't smoke here!
· She needn’t work as her parents father is rich – She doesn’t need to work, since her father is rich

Note: in addition to need and dare, have to is also special from a grammatical point of view. The fact is that, despite its status, in a sentence it is used in the form of a simple semantic action:

· Did you have to read the whole article? – Did you have to read the whole article?
· He didn’t have to repeat his words again - He didn’t have to repeat his words again

However, this form should not be confused with the American analogue have got to, which, although it coincides with have to in meaning, is grammatically a full-fledged modal:

· Have you got to overwork? – Do you have to work overtime?
· She hadn’t got to visit a doctor - She didn’t have to go to the doctor

Division into groups

Depending on the meaning attached to a particular modal verb, they are usually divided into special groups.

Modal verbs of deduction

Modal verbs of deduction are those English action words that serve to display an assumption about a topic. Modals of deduction include such as can (could), may (might), should. Here are examples of modal verbs of this category in sentences:

· It can be a postman, but I’m not sure – It could be a postman, but I’m not sure
· She might be coming home right now – She might be coming home right now

As you can see, modals of deduction can be used not only with Indefinite, but also with other forms of the infinitive. For example, with this modal Perfect Infinitive can talk about an assumption with an emphasis on the past:

He might have left his home many years ago - Perhaps he left his home many years ago

Verbs of possibility

Modals of probability reflect a situation when the speaker makes an assumption regarding a particular situation. The verb used in such a function means the possibility of performing an action. The most common words in this case are can and may:

· You can find the book you need in the bookcase – You can find the book you need in the closet
· You may meet her every evening walking with her child – You can meet her every evening walking with her child

Note: Modals of possibility also include the often forgotten to be to. Its only peculiarity is that in the probability function the infinitive that follows it is used exclusively in the passive:

Many children are to be met in this house – Many children can be found in this house

Verbs of obligation

Words expressing obligation and prohibition are those that are associated with orders, prohibitions, and obligations. This category includes quite a few forms, and the verbal meaning of each of them is special:

· You mustn’t leave the room! -You can't leave the room!
· You are not to go there until he orders – You cannot go there until he says

· He shall go away immediately! - He will leave immediately!

Verbs of volition

These modal words in English have a meaning that expresses desire. The most striking words in this category are shall and will, which are not always modals and, as is known, often act as auxiliary words. However, in a modal sense they occur in the following examples:

· We shall support our people – We want to support our people
· You may cry if you will – You can cry if you want

Temporal forms of modal verbs

Conjugation of modal verbs is a nuance that deserves special attention. Modal verbs in the past tense can be used, and quite often (could, might, was to/were to). But these past modals are in the minority, since it is impossible to form the past tense with others.

Modals are also not used in the future tense; In most cases, in order to express the Future, it is customary to use the original forms. The exception is, perhaps, the pair shall and will, which in principle are associated with the future tense, as well as must, which has equivalents - to be likely to and to be sure to (“surely”, “exactly”).

To express past meaning, you cannot do without the perfect. Such an infinitive, however, is not typical for all words: have to, shall, will/would, and dare do not have it.

Modal verbs are also especially used in indirect speech. As you know, a typical feature of this grammatical phenomenon is a shift of tenses down one level. But while this can actually be done with some modals (can – could, may – might), many do not have a past form. However, even in this case, the structure can sometimes change: for example, must in Reported Speech turns into have to:

“You must work to earn money,” he said – He said that I had to work to earn money – He said that I must work to earn money

Equivalents of modal verbs

Some modals can sometimes be replaced by other structures that are similar in meaning. Modal verbs and their equivalents, as it becomes clear, do not coincide in form, but in terms of meaning they are almost equivalent. Below is a table of modal verbs with all their possible equivalents:

When using modal verbs in English, it is important to remember not only what these constructions are, but also what meaning they carry and what function they perform in the sentence and in the text. A video lesson that presents the basic modal units can help you learn the basic modals. This video contains information about possible forms of modals, as well as translation features. Do not forget that knowing the number of such words is not enough; it is much more important to navigate forms and meanings in order to actively use them in speech.

English verbs are very diverse. To make them convenient to study, the English language divides verbs into groups and even subgroups. So, for example, according to their meaning, verbs can be divided into semantic and auxiliary. The latter ones contain auxiliary verbs, linking verbs and modal verbs. Today we will talk about the last group and study what modal verbs are in English, what their types are, how they are formed and used in speech.

Modal verbs or modal verbs in English are verbs that do not have their own meaning and are used to express modality, that is, the speaker’s attitude to any action. Accordingly, they can only be used in conjunction with another verb.

Modal verbs in English are used quite often in speech, and therefore you need to know them in order to give sentences a special meaning. Now, having considered the general definition, we can move on to a more detailed development of this topic.

In principle, there is no need to form a modal verb. You won't have to memorize the conjugation of modal verbs for a long time, for the simple reason that they have almost no conjugation. Yes, some modal verbs can change according to tense, but they do not change according to persons and numbers. Despite the fact that this fact greatly facilitates the use of such English verbs, it can cause some confusion when composing sentences, so let's take a closer look at this point.

If you take any modal verb, all you have to do is put it before the noun/pronoun. Since the noun has no declension in English, this should not be a problem. After the modal, a regular verb in the infinitive without the particle to is required:

Often, based on this rule, at the initial stage there may be a desire to put the ending - s (-es) to the modal or main verb, but under no circumstances should this be done.

If you don’t want to give up so easily and want to add this ending at least somewhere, the only exception has been made for you in the form of the modal verb have to. When conjugated, the verb have in the modal form changes in persons and numbers in the same way as in the present tense:

Speaking of endings, it is also worth noting that modal verbs, in accordance with the rules of the English language, do not have the form , so the ending –ing cannot be attached to them. This applies to absolutely all verbs, even such a non-typical one as have to.

They also do not require any auxiliary verbs in front of them in negative and interrogative sentences. Although in this case the modal verb have to is again an exception.

These were all the features of modal verbs in English that should not be forgotten when composing sentences in English.

Modal verbs in English: sentence forms

The way modal verbs are used in different sentence forms is almost identical to auxiliary verbs. Let's study the forms on the tables:

Affirmative sentences with a modal verb

To construct an affirmative sentence with a modal verb, the modal verb is placed before the subject. The semantic verb is placed after the modal verbs. These two types of verbs are used together as a compound verb predicate:

The example above is used with Active Voice. However, the passive voice with modal verbs is also quite common in speech. For the passive voice (Passive Voice), the verb be is added to the sentence with a modal verb, which is placed between the modal and main:

To modal verbs that are used in the Perfect tense, a third form of the verb to be – has been added in the passive voice:

Negative sentences with modal verb

The negative English form is identical except that the modal verb has a negative particle not:

As in the affirmative form, here you can also make sentences in the passive voice. Example of passive voice in a negative sentence:

Interrogative sentences with modal verb

The interrogative form is formed based on the type of question:

• Common questions use a modal verb before the subject:

“Passive” forms are also used in interrogative sentences. Let's consider this “passive” form using the example of a general question:

It doesn’t matter whether the sentence is “active” or “passive”, it is enough to answer this question briefly:

An exception to the rule is the modal verb have (has) to, which requires the auxiliary verb do (does) to form the interrogative form:

• In an alternative question, any second member of the sentence for choice and the conjunction or (or) are added:

This question needs to be answered in full:

• To form a special question, a question word is added to general questions at the beginning:

Questions like this also require a complete answer:

• In disjunctive questions, the form of an affirmative or negative sentence is retained, to which a short question is added:

This question needs to be answered briefly:

In the case of the modal verb have (has) to, a short question is constructed using an auxiliary verb:

List of modal verbs, their meaning and use

Let's move directly to modal verbs and their types.

Modal verb Can

Can in the meaning of “to be able”, “to be able” is used to express the possibility of performing an action. One of the most common and frequently used modal verbs. It refers to insufficient verbs, that is, verbs that do not have all forms. The modal verb itself has two forms:

• For the present tense, can is used;
• The past tense and the subjunctive mood correspond to could.

When negated, a negative particle is usually added to this English modal verb, but, unlike other cases, it is written together:

To tell the truth, very often there is disagreement on this issue: people argue that the standard form also applies. Therefore, if you are not sitting for an exam, but are simply corresponding with a person, writing separately will not be perceived as something wrong.

Sometimes, separate writing is even necessary when not is part of another structure. Most often this construction is “not only..., but also” (not only..., but also). To make it clearer, let's look at two examples:

If the can in negation is not part of the construction, and you don’t want to accidentally make a mistake, you can simply use the shortened form in everyday speech and “informal” writing:

Most often, this modal verb expresses mental or physical activity:

It can also denote the general or theoretical probability of an action occurring:

Can is also used to express a request. In this case, you can use both can and could. True could will sound more polite and formal:

A modal verb can be used to ask, allow or prohibit something to be done:

And also to express surprise, reproach or disbelief:

Modal verb to be able to

If you want to express cases with can in the future tense, you need to use another probability verb - to be able to (to be able / able to do). It is almost equivalent to the verb can, but in the present and past tense its use is more formal. In these tenses, the modal verb to be able to is more often used to express that a person managed to do something, he coped / succeeded. This modal verb changes for persons, numbers and tenses:

Modal verb May

Modal verbs that express probability also include the verb may in the meaning “allow”, “it is possible”. It also has two forms:

• May for present;
• Might for past tense and subjunctive mood.

In negation, both forms have abbreviations:

This verb is used in the same cases as can, but may is more formal:

To ask or give permission:

Modal verb be allowed to

An analogue of the modal verb may is the modal verb be allowed to in the meaning of “permission”. This verb is used to show that permission has been given without specifying by whom it was given. Since the verb to be changes in tenses, numbers and persons, the same changes apply to the modal verb be allowed to. Let's look at a table with examples of use:

Modal verb Must

The modal verb must means “must”. In negative form it has the shortened form:

Mainly used to:

Express an obligation, a need:

Express an order or prohibition:

And an expression of confidence:

Modal verb have to

Since must does not have a past or future tense, the modal verb have (has) to is used instead in such cases:

The modal verb have to (have got to) is used in the meaning of “have to”, “must”. In addition to the above-mentioned case, it is also used independently, without replacing the verb must. It is usually used to show that some action must be done because it is “necessary”, and not because it is wanted:

Do not forget that have to (have got to) changes according to numbers, persons and tenses:

The difference between must and have to in this case is determined by the fact that:

• Using must, we feel/realize obligation. We need to do something:

That is, we decided that something would be our “rule” and we would definitely follow it.

• By using have to, we mean that we do not want to do something, but we have to due to circumstances:

However, speakers often replace have to must with the form.

You may have noticed that the verb have to can also be used as have got to. The difference between these modal verbs is minor:

• Have got to implies a specific action:

• Have to implies a repeated action:

Modal verb should

The modal verb should means “must”, “should”. Short form in negation:

This modal verb is used to:

Express a moral obligation:

Give advice:

This time can also be found in the instructions:

Modal verb ought to

Modal verb ought to, which means the same as the verb should. However, it is used much less frequently. This modal verb has only one form. To use it, the to particle is required. It also has a contraction in negation:

This modal verb is used to express advice and obligations:

Modal verb shall and will

Modal verbs shall and will, which combine modal meaning and the meaning of future tenses. They also have shortened forms in negation:

Shall is used to express a proposal to do something:

The modal verb will is used in English to express promise and insistence. Also, the modal verb will can be found in interrogative sentences that imply orders:

Modal verb be to

Modal verb be to to express obligation. Used in past and present tenses. When using it, you should always use a particle

Used to:

Express actions that are performed according to a specific schedule:

For actions that are predefined:

To express a prohibition or impossibility:

Modal verb would

The modal verb would, usually used for polite requests and suggestions. Do not confuse would in the sense of “would” and would be a modal verb.

In English, the modal verb would also has a shortened negative form:

Table with examples:

Would is also used to make assumptions:

It's worth noting that in English there are certain verbs that are often called semi-modal. Semimodal verbs are verbs that can serve two functions in a sentence. On the one hand, they can be used in the form of main verbs, which are preceded by an auxiliary verb in questions and negations. On the other hand, they can be words expressing the properties of modal verbs. These verbs include:

Modal verb used to

The modal verb used to is a verb whose modality is often debated. It is used only to express past situations and only in one case.

Among the features of this time, the variants of its formation for denial and question:

This verb is used to express an action/state that happened in the past. When translated into Russian, such sentences may have the adverb “before”:

Modal verb need

Another semi-modal verb is the verb need, which denotes the need to perform an action. Short form of negation:

Usually replaces the modal verbs must and have to in negative and interrogative sentences.

Used in affirmative sentences to mean “need”:

Also used in questions when you want to hear a negative answer:

In its meaning, the modal verb dare does not differ from the semantic verb dare. The only difference is that the modal verb dare does not require the use of auxiliary verbs.

Modal verb let

The semimodal group also includes the verb let. Let as a modal verb in English is used to mean “let”, “permit”, “permit”. If the verb is used as a semantic one, it practically does not change its meaning.

Modal verbs in English: additional uses

Let's consider a few more points about the use of modal verbs:

1. All of the above verbs can be used in indirect speech. However, there are a number of nuances here:

• Some modal verbs do not change in indirect speech. These include could, might, should, would, ought to. Example:

• Modal verbs that change include:

1. It is also worth noting that modal verbs can be used with a perfect infinitive.

• Can + Perfect Infinitive to show that a person does not believe an action that has already happened. Could + Perfect Infinitive is used in the same meaning, but in a less solid form.
• May + Perfect Infinitive expresses uncertainty about the event. Might + Perfect Infinitive – even less confidence.
• Must + Perfect Infinitive shows confidence or speaks about the likelihood of performing an action in the past.
• Need + Perfect Infinitive questions the wisdom of the action taken.
• Ought + Perfect Infinitive expresses reproach for past actions.
• Will + Perfect Infinitive shows determination to carry out an action until a certain point in the future.
• Would + Perfect Infinitive is used to express an action that one wanted to carry out, but did not succeed.
• Should + Perfect Infinitive expresses an action that should have been performed in the past, but was not performed.

Note that in both English and the Russian translation, with the exception of will, the perfect modal verb implies the past tense.

Let's look at a few examples:

You can write as much about modal verbs as there is space. However, the briefly presented information about each modal verb should be enough to fully master this topic of English grammar. Modal verbs, expressing a whole range of feelings, are indeed used very often. This means that they must be learned and used correctly to be able to express their thoughts. If you encounter difficulties, return to the rules above, make up your own examples and practice English, devoting as much time as possible to the language.

We often come across modal verbs even in Russian, without suspecting that they belong to the modal class. So, first of all, you need to understand the concept of “modal verbs”.

Modal are those verbs that show not an action or state, but your attitude to the subject of conversation. This list includes words expressing permission, necessity, order, possibility/impossibility. There is a small percentage of modal verbs in the English language, but even beginners sometimes encounter problems when using them. As a rule, this is due to shades of meaning of verbs. It is not difficult to get confused in their abundance, but after reading the article, you will be able to mentally divide the modal verbs of the English language into groups convenient for learning and actively use them in written and spoken speech.

Getting to know modal verbs

Character traits

Since modal verbs express only the speaker’s attitude to what is being discussed, they are used in pairs with a semantic verb.

She can talk with you. - She can talk with you.

These verbs do not have finite forms - the same form is used for all pronouns, i.e. in the sentence above we can change she(she) to any other person. Also, modal verbs do not have a gerund (a verb ending in ing) or a participle.

In interrogative sentences, the modal verb comes first, no auxiliary elements are required!

You must know everything. –You must know All.
Must you know everything? —Do you have to know everything?

In negative sentences, after modal verbs they simply put the particle not (in the abbreviated version n’t).

We needn’ t to check our car. “We don’t need to check our car.”

The next paragraph will discuss in detail the most popular modal verbs in the English language.

Modal verbs in practice

Despite the apparent abundance of these verbs, not all of them are used in speech. In addition, the most popular - must, can and may - have a common meaning and can replace other modal verbs. However, when using modal verbs in English, no one has canceled the rules. When choosing a modal verb when constructing speech, oral or written, pay attention to the shade of meaning you want to convey and the tense of the verb.

Below is a table of modal verbs in English , which will greatly ease the lot of both beginners and those continuing to learn the language.

Let us dwell in more detail on each of the verbs, specifying their features. The negative form of the verb and its meaning are given through a slash.

1) must/mustn’t

Meaning:
a) obligation – must, must (in the opinion of the speaker);
b) assumption – there must be;
c) prohibition - impossible.

a) You must keep your room tidy. - You must maintain order in the room.

b) It must be delicious. –This, must be , tasty. (Present Simple - simple present tense)
She must have caught a cold. - She, there must be, caught a cold.(Present Perfect - present completed tense)

c) You mustn't feed the monkeys at the zoo. –It is forbidden feed monkeys V zoo.

Features: the modal verb must has no forms in either the past or future tenses. In such cases we replace it with have to:

He had to walk his dog yesterday. - Yesterday he had walk your dog.

2) have to / don’t have to

Meaning:
a) obligation – must, forced, has to (due to external circumstances);
b) absence of obligations – should not, optional.

a) She has to take care of her ill father. –She forced take care O sick father.

b) We don't have to wear uniform at school on Saturdays. –By Saturdays us not necessary walk V school V form.

Features: have to only expresses a modal meaning, but is not modal itself, therefore it is subject to general rules in all tenses.

3) be to / not be to

Meaning:
a) obligation – must, agreed (by some general agreement);
b) prohibition – should not.

a) Tonight you are to read a tale to children. –Today You By agreement you're reading fairy tale children.

b) This film is not to have been shown twice. - This movie shouldn't have show a second time.

Features: to be to in the modal meaning is subject to the same rules as to the regular verb to be. In the future tense it is not used to express modality, so in this case we use have to:

What will I have to do tomorrow? –What I must will do Tomorrow?

4)can/can't

Meaning:
a) ability to perform an action – I can, I am able (possibility);
b) permission – is it possible, is it possible (request for permission in the question);
c) inability – I can’t, I don’t know how;
d) prohibition – impossible, not allowed.

a) You can climb up the trees. –You you know how climb By trees.

b) You can take another piece of cake. –Can take more piece cake.
Can we help you? - We Can Can I help you with something?

c) She can ’ t draw anything. - She generally can not nothing to draw.

d) But you can ’ t open this red door. - But it is forbidden open only this red door.

Features: in the future tense, to express the meaning “will be able to do” you should use the construction to be able to:

He won't be able to get permission. –He will be able get permission.

5)could/couldn't

Meaning: past tense form of can;
a) opportunity in the past – could, could (missed opportunity);
b) polite request for permission - is it possible;
c) proposal - something can be done;
d) couldn’t (it wasn’t possible).

a) Sarah could go to the university last year. – Sarah could went to university last year.

b) Could I sit here? –Can I I'll sit down here?

With) We could go playing billiards. –We Can go play V billiards.

d) He couldn't have disappeared! –He Not could evaporate!

Features: the specified verb is not suitable for expressing the meaning “could, could not.” In this version, we will take the following construction - be able to.

6) be able to / not be able to

Meaning:
a) the ability to perform an action - to be able to do something, be able to, capable (because you have everything you need);
b) inability to perform an action – cannot, is not capable of, cannot.

a) He has been able to win the competition. –He smog win V competitions.

b) We weren't able to play basketball in childhood.As children we didn't know how play basketball.

Features: changes in tenses like a regular verb to be

7) shouldn't/shouldn't

Meaning:
a) advice – must, should, must (recommendation with the meaning of obligation);
b) waiting – it’s time, it should;
c) reproach – should have, should have;
d) advice not to do – it’s not worth it, it shouldn’t be done.

a) You should eat more vitamins. - You need to eat more vitamins.

b) You should find a good girl and get married. – It's time you find a good girl and settle down.

c) She should have lost weight. - She's been around for a long time it was time lose weight.

d) They shouldn't’ t spend so much money. - Them do not do it spend so much money.

Features: used with all tenses, the future meaning requires the use of a tense marker.

8) ought to / oughtn’t to

Meaning:
a) advice – must, should (due to moral principles);
b) firm confidence - there must be (with Present Perfect);
c) advice – you shouldn’t, you shouldn’t do this.

a) You ought to tell her everything. –You must All to her tell.

b) They ought to have decided. - They, must be have already made a decision.

With) You not enough to offend your little sister. –Not necessary offend my little sister.

Features: not used in official statements, it is an analogue of the more commonly used should.

9) need to/ needn’t to (don’t need to)

Meaning:
a) necessity – necessary, required;
b) lack of need - not necessary

Features: in the case of this verb, the nuances should be discussed in advance. The verb need can be either regular (vary in all tenses, require the presence of an auxiliary), or purely modal - in the second version it is used only in the present tense. As a correct need, it is used to express a general need; as a modal, it is used to express a particular need.

a) He need to work at weekends. –To him need to work By on days off. (private need)

b) Girls don ’ t need to make up – they are so beautiful! – For girls no need put on makeup, they are already beautiful!

10) will (shall) / won’t (shan’t)

Meaning:
a) probability of action in the future - I will do, I will do;
b) lack of probability of action in the future - I won’t do it, I won’t do it.

a) I will go to Spain in the summer. –In summer I I'll go V Spain.
Shall we go home? – Shouldn't I go should we go home?

b) She won ’ t play the golf tomorrow. - She will not play golf tomorrow.

Features: shall (shan’t) is used only for the 1st person (I, we) in questions and negations.

11) would/wouldn't

Meaning: a) expression of future meaning in the past (in the subordinate part of complex sentences); b) conditional mood – would do; c) polite offer or invitation; d) unwillingness to do something

a) She said she would come round. – She said, What will come in V guests .

b) If you were fat, you would look like our uncle. –If b You was fat man, That looked would How our uncle.

c) Would you like to join us? – Want to join us?

d) I tried but he wouldn't ’ t agree . - I tried, but he didn't agree at all.

Features: the verb would often replaces will in questions, as a more polite and colloquial form.

12) may / may not

Meaning:
a) formal permission – possible;
b) low confidence – maybe;
c) prohibition – refusal of permission.

a) May I come in? –Can whether I to come in?

b) It may be cold in the evening. –In the evening Maybe be Cold.

c) You may not eat in the library. –It is forbidden eat V library.

Features: used only in the present tense, is a more formal version of the verb can.

13) might / might not

Meaning:
a) low confidence – maybe;
b) formal permission – possible;
c) reproach – could (with Present Perfect);
d) weak confidence (cannot).

a) They might – Maybe , They will come.

b) Might we play the computer? – Can should we play on the computer?

c) You might have opened the door for me. –Could would to me And open.

d) It might not be true. - This hardly looks like the truth.

Features: compared to may, might expresses a very low degree of confidence.

To summarize, I would like to remind you once again: choose a modal verb depending on the meaning and do not forget about the tense of the predicate.

To master the rules of using modal verbs, be sure to practice through tests, exercises and speaking. If any aspects related to the above grammatical topic are not covered in this article, be sure to write about it in the comments!

Modal verbs and their equivalents - Modal verbs in English and their equivalents

Abstract to the material: Unfortunately, the topic of modal verbs and their equivalents in English is often poorly covered, especially in school textbooks. The maximum that an interested reader can find in them is only “superficial” information, which in a real language situation with a native English speaker can only aggravate the situation. As a result, one’s own experience, often negative, becomes the teacher and the actual means of revealing this topic. The purpose of this material is to correct the current situation.

The first and main concept in this topic is the concept of modality in linguistics: modality- expression of the speaker’s attitude to the content of his utterance.
Modal verbs express an attitude towards an action (its necessity, probability, possibility of its completion, etc.).

Features of modal verbs in English

1. They do not change by person, do not have the ending -s/-es in the third person, singular (except for the equivalents of modal verbs: to have (to), to be (to), to be obliged (to)).
She can swim; he must be tired; it might rain later.
She has to wake up early; we are to read "War and Peace"; I am obliged to you for your recent help.
2. Auxiliary verbs are not added to them when constructing interrogative and negative sentences. In such sentences, the modal verb itself plays the role of an auxiliary verb: in questions it takes place before the subject, and in negations the particle not is added to it (exceptions: to have (to) is used in questions and negations with an auxiliary verb; in to be (to) and to be obliged (to) be in questions is used before the subject in the appropriate person and number (am/are/is) and adds the particle not in questions).
Shall do we go for a walk? Can I help you? What should I do?
He can"t dance; you mustn"t steal; you shouldn't lie.
Does he have to know I"ve never been kissed? Are we to meet inside? Is he obliged to attend the audition?
She doesn't have to drink coffee; I am not to work today; I am not obliged to pay for this.
3. Not all modal verbs have forms of future and past tenses, and when they are expressed, they are replaced by equivalents. It is more correct to consider aspectual forms of modal verbs as separate modal verbs, and not as forms of one due to their significant difference in use; in some cases this also applies to negative forms. All explanations and examples for this paragraph are further in the material.
4. They do not have an infinitive form of the verb (infinitive) or -ing forms. In such cases, the equivalents are used:
I"d love to be able to ski; I hate having to get up on cold mornings.
5. After them, the particle to of the semantic verb is not used (except for equivalents). The exception is the modal verb ought to.
You must go; I"ll help you; you have to visit him; you ought to see a doctor.
6. Can be used with a perfect infinitive to describe actions that happened in the past:
You should have told me that you can"t swim: you might have drowned!
7. Each modal verb has at least two meanings:
A. Expresses probability or possibility
b. Expresses an opinion, judgment, attitude.

Modal verbs can be divided into two categories:

Table of modal verbs in English

Abbreviations: can not = can"t = cannot, could not= couldn"t, may not = mayn"t, might not = mightn"t, must not = mustn"t, shall not = shan"t, should not = shouldn't "t, will = "ll, will not = won"t, would = "d, would not = wouldn"t, need not = needn"t, dare not = daren"t ().

Expression of obligation

The modal verb must, the equivalents to have (to), to be obliged (to), to be (to), as well as the multifunctional verb will express the strong form of obligation.

Must is personal a verb of obligation and expresses personal desire or even demand of the speaker. This modal verb must be used very carefully:
You must come up to the reception in order to join a library. You must go to the reception desk to sign up for the library (meaning I want, require, actually order you to go to the reception desk, not just say it). The reaction of people who hear such “advice” will be quite obvious.
But we can say:
I must get my hair cut. I have to cut my hair (I want it so bad).
In addition, must is used in official and written speech, often in impersonal sentences:
Books must be returned on or before the due date. Books must be returned no later than the specified deadline (library rule).

To have (to) expresses an obligation based on any rules or laws, on the authority of another person or on circumstances.
I can't play tennis tomorrow. I have to go to the dentist. I won't be able to play tennis tomorrow. I need to go to the dentist (I have an appointment).
Children have to go to school until they are sixteen. Children under sixteen years of age must go to school (law).
Mum says you have to tidy your room before you go out. Mom says you should clean your room before you leave. This sentence reflects the mother’s order and not the speaker’s order; On behalf of the mother, this requirement looks like this:
You must tidy your room before you go out. You must clean your room before leaving (I want it so much, I order you to do it).
Compare:
Mum says you must tidy your room before you go out. In fact, this sentence means: "Mom says that I (speaking) I demand that you clean your room before you leave." Must is a personal modal verb; when someone's personal speech is conveyed in an indirect form, it is replaced by to have (to)/to have got (to).
A few examples to compare must and to have (to)/to have got (to) :
I must stop smoking. I have to quit smoking (I want to).
I "ve got to stop smoking. I must quit smoking (doctor's orders).
Questions with must are possible, but very rare. To have (to) is used much more often:
Must you buy these shabby jeans? Do you really need to buy these distressed jeans? (Is this what you want?)
Do you have to wear a tie at work? Should you wear a tie to work? (Do you have such a rule?)

The negative forms must not and do not have (to) are significantly different. Mustn't used to express prohibitions; don't have (to) denotes the absence of an obligation (any action can be performed if you want, but this is not obligatory).
You must not leave bicycles in front of the portal. It is prohibited to leave bicycles in front of the main entrance.
Passengers must not speak to the driver! Passengers are prohibited from talking to the driver!
You mustn't steal other people's things. It's wrong! You can't steal other people's things! It's illegal!
Some people iron their socks, but you don"t have to. I think it"s a waste of time. Some people iron their socks, but you don't have to. I think it's a waste of time.
When you go into a shop, you don't have to buy something. You can just look. When you come to a store, you don't have to buy something. You can just look.

To be obliged (to) is also the equivalent of the modal verb must, but is used much less frequently than to have (to). The difference is that to be obliged (to) is a little more formal and expresses an obligation related to social, legal and moral aspects:
"The Constitution does not oblige government to avoid any public acknowledgment of religion's role in society," Anthony Kennedy said in his opinion.
I am obliged to you for your gracious hospitality. I thank you for your hospitality.

Equivalent to be (to) expresses an obligation due to some agreement, in accordance with a plan or schedule.
The train is to arrive. Why is it still at the station? The train must depart (according to the schedule). Why is he still at the station?

Should And ought (to) express weak obligation or advice. Both modal verbs express what the speaker thinks is true.
You"re always asking me for money. I think you should spend less. You constantly ask me for money. I think you should spend less.
You ought to be more careful with your money. You need to be more careful with your money.
You shouldn't sit so close to the TV! It's bad for your eyes. You shouldn't sit so close to the TV! It's harmful to the eyes.
There is practically no difference in the use of should and ought (to), but sometimes the latter expresses a moral duty:
You ought to visit your grandmother. You should visit your grandmother.
or regret:
You ought to help me! You must help me! (But you don't help.)

Multifunctional verb will as a modal verb in the 2nd and 3rd person singular. and many more numbers express an order, obligation or recommendation. The use of this verb is often resorted to in military institutions and schools.
You will do as you"ve been told.
The crew will come forward at midnight! The crew must depart at midnight!

Expression of permission, permission

Can, could, may, might, to be allowed (to) are used to express permission and permission.

Can used to ask and state permission, while can"t to deny this permission.
- Can I ask you a question? Can I ask you a question?
- Yes, of course you can. Of course you can.
I"m sorry, you can"t come in here. Unfortunately, you can't come here.

Modal verb could used as a more polite form.
Could you do me a favor? Could you do me a favor?

Modal verb of permission may more formal and used much less frequently than can:
May I come in, sir? May I come in, sir?
Can and could (but not may) are used to talk about what is usually allowed.
Can you park in this street in Sundays? Is it possible to park on this street on Sundays?

Equivalent to be allowed (to) replaces may in the past and future tenses, is used as an infinitive and participle and has no significant difference in meaning with the modal verb may.
You"ll be allowed to go out. You will be allowed/allowed to go out.

Past form may - might used in the meaning of permission/permission is used only in the subordinate part of a sentence (mainly in indirect speech), when the verb of the main part is in the past tense, in other cases the equivalent to be allowed (to) is used.
Austin said you might take his diary. Austin said you could take his diary.
I was allowed to take the diary. I was allowed to take the diary.

Expression of ability, possibility

The ability or possibility of performing any action is expressed using the modal verb can, its equivalent to be able (to) and the expression managed (to).

To be able (to) means the same as can, but can is used much more often. To be able (to) more formal.
Can you come to a meeting next week? Can you come to the meeting next week?
Please inform us if you are able to attend a meeting next week. Please let us know if you are able to attend next week's meeting.
To be able to have temporary ones? e forms that the modal verb can does not have:
I"d love to be able to fly. I would really like to be able to fly.
I like being able to jollify if I want. I find it nice to be able to have fun whenever I want.
I"ve never been able to cook. I never knew how to cook.
She"ll be able to see you tomorrow. She will be able to meet you tomorrow.

To express ability/possibility in general, a modal verb is used in the past tense could.
I could swim when I was four. I knew how to swim when I was four years old.
And to express a one-time action in a certain situation in the past, it is used to be able (to) or expression managed (to).
The woman was drowing, but a lifeguard managed to swim to her and pull her out of the water. That woman was drowning, but a rescuer was able to swim to her and pull her out of the water.
The prisoners were able to escape by bribing the guards. The prisoners were able to escape by bribing the guards.
The exception to this rule are verbs of feeling and perception. The modal verb could is used with such verbs.
When we came into the building, I could smell something burning. When we entered the building I smelled something burning.
We could remember where I lost my passport. I was able to remember where I lost my passport.

Couldn't used to express the inability/impossibility of performing an action in the past.
My mother couldn't swim until she was 47. My mother couldn't swim until she was 47.
I couldn't find my wallet anywhere. I couldn't find my wallet anywhere.

Note: Can and can't can be used to express a future action if the speaker decides at the moment of conversation (that is, he knows for sure) that he can or cannot perform it.
I can see you tomorrow morning for half an hour. I can meet you tomorrow morning for half an hour.
Compare:
One day we will be able to live without wars. Someday we will be able to live without warriors.

Shall I/we... ? used as a request for advice, as a proposal or an invitation (in Russian it is often translated as an affirmative rather than an interrogative sentence).
Shall I carry your bag? Let me carry your bag.
What shall I do? What should I do? (Advise me.)
Shall we dance? Let's Dance.
Shall we go to the seaside or the mountains? Shall we go to the coast or to the mountains? (Advised.)

Expression of confidence, probability

In addition to ought, permission and ability, modal verbs can express degrees of certainty and probability. The following modal verbs are arranged in order of "fading" degree of probability that they express: must, will (would) could, may, might, can't. For greater clarity, the above modal verbs can be assigned an approximate percentage of probability:

Must And can"t are used to express a logical conclusion: must - logically possible and can"t - logically impossible. Both verbs by no means mean one hundred percent certainty of the possibility or impossibility of an action due to the lack of certain facts, but express a very high degree of it.
Martin must have some problems - he is kind of sullen. Martin must have problems: he's kind of gloomy.
There's the doorbell. It must be Rodger. He always comes home at this time. Someone rings the doorbell. It must be Roger. He always comes home at this time.
Suzie can't have a ten-year-old daughter! She's only twenty-five herself! Susie can't have a ten year old daughter! She herself is only twenty-five!
You can't be serious. I know you are joking. You're not serious. I know you're joking.

Could, may And might usually emphasized in speech.
Dave and Lucy aren't at home. They could be in the theatre, I suppose. Dave and Lucy are not at home. I think they can be in the theater (≈80% certainty; Dave and Lucy often go to the theater).
We may go to Greece for our holidays. We haven't decided yet. Perhaps we will spend a vacation in Greece. We haven't decided yet (≈50% certainty).
She may be at home. She may be at home (≈50% certainty).
Ann might be there too. Perhaps Anne is there too (≈20%; low confidence)
According to the radio, it may rain today (≈50%). It might even snow (≈20%). According to the radio it may rain today. Or maybe even snow.

The continuous infinitive is used after the modal verb of probability to express possible activities occurring at the moment.
His light"s on. He must be working late. The light is on. It must be working.
It"s only 8:10. They can"t be having a break yet. It's only ten minutes past eight. They can't have a break.

Design modal verb + perfect infinitive expresses the degree of probability in the past:
They could have moved house. They could have moved.
Robert must have gone out. Robert must have left (he is not at home now).
She passed me in the street without speaking: she can"t have seen me. He passed me without even saying hello: I think she didn’t see me.
I rang Helen but she didn’t reply, so I suppose she may have been in the bath. I called Helen, but she didn’t answer, I think she was in the bathroom.

As already mentioned at the beginning of this material, each modal verb can express probability and judgment. The listed must, could, may, might, can"t more than express all possible ways of indicating probability and are suitable for almost all life situations. But despite this, probability can also be expressed: should, ought (to), will, would and need Cases of their use in this meaning are quite rare, but they still exist.

Should And ought (to) express an assumption based on facts.
They should all be of equal speed. They probably all have the same speed.
It ought not to be very hard to get the village. It probably won't be very difficult to get to this village.

Will And would express an assumption based on the subjective opinion of the speaker.
We heard the phone call. "That would be Charles", I said, knowing I was right. We heard the phone ringing. “It’s probably Charles,” I replied, knowing that I was right.
That will be the postman, I expect. It's probably the postman.

Need used in negative sentences to mean an assumption about the optionality of an action.
It doesn't take you very long. It is unlikely that this will take you much time.

Expression of desire, intention, determination

Desires and intentions are expressed by multifunctional verbs will And would, used with 1st person singular. and many more number in a construction with an imperfect infinitive. Usually shall is used with the first person, and the use of will gives a connotation of determination and desire. In such cases, the modal verb will is not shortened to “ll and is stressed in the sentence; in Russian it is either not translated at all or translated as “want”, “certainly”, etc.
I will do it whether you like it or not. I'll do it anyway, whether you like it or not.
I will answer you as soon as I can. I will certainly answer you as soon as I can.
I will let you know! I'll definitely let you know!
I would tell you, I swear! I would have told you, I swear!
In addition, would is used quite often in constructions:
would rather be preferable
would better
would sooner sooner
I"d rather go for a walk. Perhaps I'll go for a walk.
I"d better pay more at once instead of paying every week. I'd rather pay more immediately than pay every week.
She"d sooner break up with me then apologize to me. She would rather break up with me than ask for forgiveness.

Will and would in negative form used with animate nouns to express refusal and reluctance, and with inanimate nouns they indicate non-functioning, resistance or opposition:
I won't come back here again. I will never come back here again.
She won't go to the cafe. She doesn't want to go to the cafe.
Would in the meaning of negation can be used both for the present and for the past tense:
I wouldn't lend him even a pence.
I invited Eric several times, but he wouldn't come.
The window won't open. The window won't open.
The car wouldn't start. The car won't start.
The pen won't write. The pen doesn't write.
Will and would in questions express polite requests, suggestions and invitations. Would is a less formal and more polite verb and is more often associated with a conversational style.
Will you have some more juice? Would you like some more juice?
Will you give him this package? Would you give him this parcel?/Give him this parcel, please.
Will you wait a few? Wait a little, please./Will you wait a little?
More polite would:
Would you show me that vest? Please show me that vest over there.
Would you help me? Could you help me?
In addition, would is often found in colloquial speech in such stable expressions as:
Would you mind... Be kind.../Be kind.../Do you mind...
Would you like... Would you like.../Would you like...
Would you be so kind as to...Would you be so kind.../Be kind...
Would you mind clothing the door? Do you mind closing the door?/Please close the door.
Would you like to take a walk? Do you want to take a walk?/Don't you want to take a walk?
Would you be so kind as to remove your finger from the pie? Please take your finger away from the pie.

Modal verb need expresses necessity and is used only in questions and negations.
You needn't lie to me. You don't need to lie to me.
In speech, need is mainly used not as a modal, but as a regular (semantic) verb and, accordingly, is used with auxiliary verbs, the particle to and takes endings that depend on time.
You don't need to lie to me. You don't need to lie to me.

A similar situation is observed in the case of the verb dare, which has translations: “to dare”, “to dare”, “to dare”, “to dare”, etc. Dare can also be used as a semantic and as a modal verb, but in fact it is used mainly as a modal (as opposed to need). Dare as a modal verb is used only in interrogative and negative sentences.
Dare you use my own knowledge against me? You dare to use my knowledge against me?
I dare to ask you a private question. I dare to ask you a personal question.

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