Modal Verbs

ივარჯიშე — Modal Verbs

Modal verbs add meaning to the main verb — they express ability, possibility, permission, obligation, or advice. They never change form and are always followed by the base verb (infinitive without 'to').

Rule

Modals (can, could, must, should, may, might) are followed by the base form of the verb (no 'to', no '-s', no '-ing'). They do not use 'do/does' in questions or negatives. 'Can' = ability/permission, 'could' = past ability/polite request, 'must' = strong obligation/logical deduction, 'should' = advice, 'may/might' = possibility.

Subject + modal + base verb (V1)

Examples

Ability (can)She can speak three languages fluently.

Advice (should)You should get more sleep before the exam.

Obligation (must)Students must wear a uniform at this school.

Possibility (might)It might snow tonight — the forecast isn't clear.

Polite request (could)Could you open the window, please?

Prohibition (mustn't)You mustn't use your phone during the exam.

Exam Tip

After every modal verb, the next verb MUST be in its base form (V1). If you see 'to', '-s', or '-ed' right after a modal in the answer choices, that option is wrong.

Common Errors

!Adding 'to' after a modal: 'She can to swim' instead of 'She can swim'.
!Adding '-s' to the verb after a modal: 'He can plays football' instead of 'He can play football'.
!Confusing 'mustn't' (prohibition) with 'don't have to' (no obligation): 'You mustn't come' (you are forbidden) vs 'You don't have to come' (it's your choice).
!Using 'can' for future possibility instead of 'may/might': 'It can rain tomorrow' instead of 'It might rain tomorrow'.