List of Modal Verbs
Modal verbs express necessity, possibility, permission, or ability. Here is a comprehensive list of modal verbs with definitions to help you use them effectively:
Modal Verbs Expressing Ability
Can: Indicates ability or possibility.
Example: You can access the report online.
Could: Indicates past ability or polite requests.
Example: Could you please send the invoice?
Modal Verbs Expressing Permission
May: Indicates permission or possibility.
Example: You may leave early today.
Might: Indicates a lower possibility than "may".
Example: We might launch the new product next month.
Modal Verbs Expressing Obligation
Must: Indicates strong obligation or necessity.
Example: You must comply with the new regulations.
Shall: Indicates a future action or obligation (more formal).
Example: We shall complete the project by Friday.
Should: Indicates advice or recommendation.
Example: You should review the contract carefully.
Modal Verbs Expressing Possibility
Will: Indicates future certainty or willingness.
Example: We will attend the meeting tomorrow.
Would: Indicates a polite request or hypothetical situation.
Example: Would you like to join us for lunch?
Modal Verbs Expressing Necessity
Ought to: Indicates a moral obligation or duty.
Example: You ought to report the issue immediately.
Need to: Indicates necessity or requirement.
Example: You need to finish the report by end of day.
Modal Verbs Expressing Lack of Necessity
Need not (Needn’t): Indicates no necessity.
Example: You need not attend the optional training.
Modal Verbs Expressing Advice or Suggestions
Shall: Used for offers and suggestions (more formal).
Example: Shall we start the presentation now?
Modal Verbs Expressing Polite Requests
Could: Used for making polite requests.
Example: Could you assist me with this task?
Would: Used for making polite offers and requests.
Example: Would you mind sharing the document?
Modal Verbs in Hypothetical Situations
Could: Used for hypothetical situations.
Example: If we had more resources, we could expand our operations.
Would: Used for hypothetical outcomes.
Example: If I were the manager, I would implement a new strategy.
Rare and Formal Modal Verbs
Shall: Used in legal or formal documents.
Example: The lessee shall pay the rent by the first of each month.