Saturday, March 5, 2011

Table 1. The Meaning of Modal Verbs in English

Present

Past

Future

Meaning

Example

Purely modal verbs

can

could

———

The physical ability to perform an action.

I can play the piano.

may

might

———

The means and capability (permission) to perform an action.

He may open the window (He is allowed to open the window).

must

———-

———

The necessity to perform an action, an order.

She must read it.

ought to

———-

———

The same as the verb “Should” – should be used with the “to” participle.

He ought not to smoke at 15.

The equivalents of the verb “must”

to have

had (to)

shall/will have (to)

The same as must and ought to.

I have to read.

to be

was/were (to)

———–

Should do what was has been planned.

They are to come at 5 o’clock.