The structure of modal verbs: How and When to Use in English
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The structure of modal verbs
Modal verbs are used before the infinitive form of another verb (without to) to express ideas like possibility, obligation, permission and more. The most common modal verbs are can, would, must, should and could.
We can go to the restaurant.
They should join us.
These verbs have one form for all subjects.
She must come.
We would like some tea.
When you use modal verbs, follow these structures:
- In the affirmative form: subject + modal verb + infinitive (without to).
I could visit my family.
It must be wrong.
- In the question form, generally: modal verb + subject + infinitive (without to) + ?
Would you help me?
Should I come to your house?
- In the negative form, generally: subject + modal verb + not + infinitive (without to).
You must not enter.
They should not go there.
Notes:
- The negative form of can is an exception: not is attached to the verb, in a single word (cannot).
We cannot find our camera.
- Most modal verbs have a negative short form (using n't) and some also have an affirmative short form.
We must not be late → we mustn't be late.
I would like to reserve a table → I'd like to reserve a table
Can you answer this question? Drag and drop the correct options.
“Can you remove the cowboy hat?”
Can you answer this question? Drag and drop the correct options.
“Can you remove the cowboy hat?”
Yes, I can remove the cowboy hat. When using modal verbs (can, must, should, etc.), follow this structure in the affirmative form: subject (here, I) + modal verb (here, can) + infinitive without to (here, remove). Examples: you can come tonight; they must arrive early.
No, I cannot remove the cowboy hat is the negative form, which generally follows the structure: subject (here, I) + modal verb (here, can) + not + infinitive without to (here, remove). Note: in the negative form of can, not is attached to the verb, in a single word (cannot). Examples: she cannot drive a car; they should not ask again.
No, I can't. This is a short answer, which follows the structure Yes/No, + subject (here, I) + the appropriate form of the first word of the question (here, can, which becomes can't because the answer is negative). Example: -Can you call me later? -Yes, I can.
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