3. MODALS
Modals are used to express things like ability,
possibility and prohibition. The modals include:
l can/be able to
l could/would
l may/might
l should/ought to
l must/have to
l don’t have to/needn’t
l mustn’t
After a modal, we use the base form of the verb.
She can sing beautifully.
modal base form
4. MODALS
The modals can and be able to express ability.
Be able to can be used in different tenses.
Can’t also expresses certainty that something is
impossible.
This can’t be the right house – there’s nobody there.
Can you play the piano?
Are you able to play the piano?
I can’t speak to you later.
I won’t be able to speak to you later.
5. MODALS
Can also expresses request and permission.
Be able to can be used in different tenses.
We also use the modal can to express suggestion.
Can we make a cake for Marina’s birthday?
Can we take a taxi? Yes, you can.
