MODAL VERBS

The modal verbs include can, must, may, might, will, would, should. They are used with other
verbs to express ability, obligation, possibility, and so on. Below are examples of modal verbs.

Modal Meaning Example

can to express ability I can speak a little Russian.
can to request permission Can I open the window?
may to express possibility I may be home late.
may to request permission May I sit down, please?
must to express obligation I must go now.
must to express strong belief She must be over 90 years old.
should to give advice You should stop smoking.
would to request or offer Would you like a cup of tea?

Choose the correct answer in the given choices.

1. I didn’t feel very well yesterday. I _______________ eat anything.
a. cannot
b. couldn’t
c. mustn’t

2. You _______________ look at me when I am talking to you.

a. could
b. should
c. would

3. I was using my pencil a minute ago. It _______________ be here somewhere!

a. can
b. could
c. must
4. You really _______________ be late again.
a. must not
b. don’t have to be

5. If you don’t start working harder, you _______________ repeat the course next year.
a. have to
b. must
c. will have to

6. His parents spoil him. He’s always _______________to do whatever he wants.

a. been able
b. been allowed

7. Phone her now. She _______________ home by now.

a. has to be
b. must be
c. would be

8. You _______________ forget your sun cream. It’s going to be very hot!
a. don’t have to
b. mustn’t
c. needn’t

9. I _______________ be able to help you, but I’m not sure yet.

a. might
b. would

10. Entrance to the museum was free. We __________ pay to get in.
a. needn’t
b. didn’t need to

11. Already as a child, Mozart _______________ play the piano beautifully.

a. could
b. should
c. would
12. Which sign are you more likely to see at an airport: Bags _______________ not to be
left unattended.
a. can
b. must
c. may

13. I really _______________ try to get fit.

a. may
b. must
c. would

14. _______________ take a photograph of you?

a. Am I allowed to
b. May I

15. Students _______________ borrow up to 6 books at any time.

a. are allowed to
b. could