MODAL VERBS

inability in the present
Exº They can / can’t run very

fast.

Ask / give / refuse permission
Exº Can I borrow your collar?
–Yes, you can. / No, you can’t.

inability in the past
Exº They could / couldn’t bark very

loud when they
were puppies.

Ask permission politely/Make polite requests
Exº Could I sit on your lap, please?
Exº Could I have some more food, please?

bite you.

Ask / give / refuse permission (formal)
Exº May I

have a snack?
-Yes, you may. No, you may not.

They must go home.

Mustn’t – Express prohibition
Exº They mustn’t pee

in here.

/ must go to the doctor. I’m feeling ill.
You could

/ may open your books.
May / Must I have some more tea?
They can’t / mustn’t give alcohol to the animals.
That collar is too expensive. We can’t / may not buy it.
You must / mustn’t be home by 10 o’clock. I’ll be waiting for you.
I’m afraid I may not / can’t go to the dentist with you.
May / Can I take your dog to the vet?
I’ve already told you! You can’t / couldn’t eat any more sweets!
Yes, you may / must go out with your friends.

Modal Verb.
You ….. pull the dog’s tail.
….. you help me

with this dog food?
She ….. Run very fast when she was 4 years old.
….. I open the window, please?
….. you pass the milk, please?
You ….. close the door! Let the dogs come in!
You ….. do better if you weren’t so lazy.
He is very strong! He ….. lift very heavy objects.
You ….. go to bed so late! It’s bad for you!
….. I correct the exercise, teacher?