Flashcards on Understanding Modal Verbs in English
Understanding Modal Verbs in English: Your Complete Guide
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Modal verbs
52 cards
Card 1
Question: What are modal verbs?
Answer: They are special verbs that express ability, permission, possibility, advice, obligation, or future actions.
Card 2
Question: What is the basic structure following a modal verb?
Answer: Subject + modal verb + base form of the verb (infinitive without 'to').
Card 3
Question: What is 'can' used for? Give an example.
Answer: For ability, possibility, or making a request. Example: I can play soccer.
Card 4
Question: What is 'could' used for? Give an example.
Answer: For past ability, polite requests, or possibility. Example: Could you help me? / I could run faster when I was younger.
Card 5
Question: What is 'may' used for? Give an example.
Answer: For permission or possibility. Example: May I come in? / They may go tomorrow.
Card 6
Question: What is 'might' used for? Give an example.
Answer: For possibility (a weaker possibility). Example: It might rain today. / I might go home tonight.
Card 7
Question: What is 'shall' used for, and how do you form a suggestion?
Answer: For suggestions or proposals (less common). Form: Shall + subject + verb? Example: Shall we start? / Shall I open the door?
Card 8
Question: What is 'will' used for? Give an example.
Answer: For the future, predictions, promises, or intention. Example: I will call you tomorrow. / It will be cold tomorrow.
Card 9
Question: What is 'should' used for? Give an example.
Answer: For advice or recommendations. Example: You should sleep more. / You should learn English.
Card 10
Question: What is 'would' used for? Give an example.
Answer: For polite requests, invitations, or past habits. Example: I would like a sandwich. / I would be happy to assist.