Modals are auxiliary verbs that express various degrees of necessity, possibility, ability, permission, and advice. They play a crucial role in English communication, allowing speakers to convey their intentions and meanings clearly. In this article, we’ll explore three specific uses of modals: ability, permission, and advice.
1. Modals of Ability
Modals of ability indicate someone’s capability to do something. The most common modal for ability is “can”, and in the past, we use “could”.
1.1. Using “Can”
- Present Ability:
- I can swim. (I have the ability to swim.)
- General Ability:
- She can speak three languages. (Her general ability.)
1.2. Using “Could”
- Past Ability:
- When I was younger, I could run fast. (I had the ability to run fast in the past.)
- Polite Requests:
- Could you help me with this? (A more polite form of asking for help.)
2. Modals of Permission
Modals of permission express whether something is allowed or not. The primary modals used for this purpose are “can,” “may,” and “might.”
2.1. Using “Can”
- Informal Permission:
- You can use my phone. (Casual permission.)
2.2. Using “May”
- Formal Permission:
- You may leave the table. (A more formal way to give permission.)
- Polite Requests:
- May I come in? (Asking for permission in a polite manner.)
2.3. Using “Might”
- Tentative Permission:
- You might want to ask if it’s okay to leave early. (Suggesting permission in a less certain way.)
3. Modals of Advice
Modals of advice provide suggestions or recommendations. The most common modals for giving advice are “should”, “ought to”, and “had better.”
3.1. Using “Should”
- General Advice:
- You should see a doctor. (A recommendation for action.)
- Mild Obligation:
- You should always wear a seatbelt. (Advising based on safety.)
3.2. Using “Ought to”
- Similar to “Should”:
- You ought to try that new restaurant. (A suggestion that is slightly stronger.)
3.3. Using “Had Better”
- Stronger Advice:
- You had better finish your homework before going out. (Implies a warning or stronger consequence if not followed.)
4. Common Mistakes with Modals
- Confusing “Can” and “May”:
- Incorrect: Can I go to the party? (Informal situations may work, but in formal contexts, “may” is preferred.)
- Correct: May I go to the party?
- Using “Should” for Future Predictions:
- Incorrect: I think it should rain tomorrow.
- Correct: I think it will rain tomorrow. (Use “should” for advice, not predictions.)
- Mixing Up Past Modals:
- Incorrect: I can go to the concert last night.
- Correct: I could go to the concert last night. (Use “could” for past abilities.)