Flashcards on English Modals: Can and Have To

Master English Modals: Can and Have To Explained

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What is the basic structure for expressing possibility with 'can' in English?

Can + base form of the verb (infinitive without 'to'). Ex: We can stay out late tonight.

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Grammar: Can and Have to

15 cards

Card 1

Question: What is the basic structure for expressing possibility with 'can' in English?

Answer: Can + base form of the verb (infinitive without 'to'). Ex: We can stay out late tonight.

Card 2

Question: Give an example of 'can' to express ability.

Answer: We can speak English. / They can't play the piano.

Card 3

Question: How do you answer the question 'Can you go running tomorrow at 3:00?' with a short affirmative and negative response?

Answer: Yes: 'Yes, I can.' No: 'No, I can't.'

Card 4

Question: What is the structure for expressing obligation with 'have to' in English?

Answer: Have to / has to + base form of the verb. Ex: I have to work late tonight. She has to meet her cousin at the airport.

Card 5

Question: Give an example of short affirmative and negative usage with 'have to' in questions.

Answer: Do they have to work tomorrow? — Yes, they do. / No, they don't. Does he have to go to class now? — Yes, he does. / No, he doesn't.

Card 6

Question: How is 'have to' used when you decline an invitation?

Answer: It's used to give the reason for declining. Ex: 'Sorry, I can't. I have to work late.'

Card 7

Question: Explain the difference between 'can' and 'have to' according to the content.

Answer: 'Can' indicates possibility or ability; 'have to' indicates obligation or necessity.

Card 8

Question: Write a sentence from the content that shows 'can't' used to decline an invitation.

Answer: 'Sorry, I can't. I have to work late.' (example used to decline an invitation with a reason)

Card 9

Question: How are 'can' and 'can't' pronounced according to the pronunciation guide?

Answer: 'can' is usually pronounced /kən/ and 'can't' /kænt/ (ex: I can call you today. / I can't call you tomorrow.).

Card 10

Question: Complete with 'can' or 'have to': "I'd like to go out tonight, but we ___ a test tomorrow. I ___ study."

Answer: have to; have to — 'I have to study.'