Primary 4 English Grammar: Modal Verbs

A complete set of vocabulary flashcards reviewing modal verbs, their grammatical rules, functions, and comparative strengths based on the worksheet.

Modal Verbs

Verbs that do not form all tenses, are followed by an infinitive without "to", stay the same in all persons, and form interrogative and negative sentences without auxiliary verbs.

Can

A modal verb used to express ability, requests, offers, possibility, and permission.

Will

A modal verb used to express requests, offers, promises, threats, and warnings.

May

A modal verb used to express requests, possibility, and permission; it is more polite than "can".

Must

A modal verb used to express obligation and prohibition.

Had to

The past tense of the modal verb "must".

Should

A modal verb used to express recommendations and advice.

Ability

A function expressed using "can" to show skill or capability, as in "Mary can fly a plane."

Request

A function expressed using "can", "will", or "may" to ask for something, as in "Can you open the door, please?" or "May I have some more soup, please?"

Offer

A function expressed using "can" or "will" to offer assistance or items, as in "Can I help you with that box?" or "I will lend you some money."

Possibility

A function expressed using "can" or "may" to state that something is capable of happening or being true, as in "Wild animals can be dangerous" or "He may be at work."

Permission

A function expressed using "can" or "may" to give or request consent, as in "Can I go to the party, Mum?" or "You may sit down if you like."

Promise

A function expressed using "will" to declare a firm commitment, as in "I will wait for you."

Threat

A function expressed using "will" to warn of an intended negative action, as in "Don't kick my dog or I will kick you!"

Warning

A function expressed using "will" to inform someone of potential harm, as in "Mum, be careful with the iron! You will burn yourself."

Obligation

A function expressed using "must" to indicate a duty or requirement, as in "We must obey the law."

Prohibition

A function expressed using "mustn't" to indicate that an action is strictly forbidden, as in "You mustn't smoke in this restaurant."

Recommendation

A function expressed using "should" to suggest a course of action, as in "You should try the soup."

Advice

A function expressed using "should" to guide someone on what is best to do, as in "You should sleep earlier."

Must vs. Should

Two modal verbs that are similar in meaning, though "must" is a much stronger word than "should".