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MODALS: MUST, MIGHT, HAVE TO, CAN, HAVE GOT TO.

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Modals Verbs

  • Modal verbs are special verbs which behave very differently from normal verbs. Here are some important differences:
  • 1. Modal verbs do not take "-s" in the third person.
  • 2. You use "not" to make modal verbs negative, even in Simple Present and Simple Past.
  • 3. Many modal verbs cannot be used in the past tenses or the future tenses.

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MUST

  • We use MUST to express a logical deduction based on present evidence. We are certain something is true.

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  • EXAMPLES: You must speak english very well
  • That must not be Jerry. He is supposed to have red hair.

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MIGHT

  • We use might to say something is possible in the present or the future. Perhaps it is true, will be true or will happen.

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  • EXAMPLES: She might be on the bus. I think her car is having problems.

She might not be on the bus. She might be walking home.

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HAVE TO

  • We use HAVE TO, to express certainty, necessity and obligation.

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  • EXAMPLE: She has to read four books for this literature class.

She doesn't have to read "Grapes of Wrath." It's optional reading for extra credit.

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CAN

  • We use CAN to express ability or opportunity, to request or offer permission, and to show possibility or impossibility.

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  • EXAMPLES: I can drive Susan's car when she is out of town.

 I can't drive Susan's car when she is out of town.

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HAVE GOT TO

  • We use HAVE GOT TO, to express necessity and obligation.

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  • EXAMPLES: People have got to be on time if they want to get a seat in the crowded theater.

Haven't you got to be there by 7:00?

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