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What Are 'Can', 'May', and 'Should'?
Can, may, and should are modal verbs that are grammatically similar but express different meanings.
Can
'Can' is used to talk about ability. It has the same form for all persons and is always used with the base form of the verb. Look at the examples:
I can ride a bicycle.
'Can' is used to talk about ability.
She can paint beautiful pictures.
'Can' has the same form for all subjects.
They can drive.
May
'May' expresses possibility. Like 'can', it has the same form for all persons and is always used with the base form of the verb. Here are some examples:
It may rain this afternoon.
She may arrive soon.
Should
'Should' shows obligation and duty and it has the same form for all persons and is always used with the base form of the verb.
You should stay here.
Students should complete their homework on time.
Question
To form questions using these modals, they move to the beginning of the sentence, and the subject and the base form of the main verb come after them. For example:
Can you drive?
Should I call the doctor?
Negation
To make negative sentences using these modals, simply add 'not' after them and then add the main verb. Here are some examples:
I cannot run that fast.
I may not see you tomorrow.
You should not do that.
Warning!
Modals cannot be used with 'do/does/did' or 'to be' verbs in the same sentence.
They do may come to the party.
I am can run very fast.
She does should sit down.
Quiz:
Which sentence uses a modal verb to show ability?
She may arrive by noon.
He can swim across the lake.
You should call your teacher.
I will not to go to the store.
Which sentence expresses a possibility?
I should visit my grandmother this weekend.
It may snow tomorrow.
You can finish this task later.
They may not to be late.
Match each sentence with the function of its modal verb.
Sort the words to ask about an obligation.
Complete the sentences with the correct modal verb.
You
leave the room until the meeting ends.
He
play the guitar very well.
She
arrive late to the party.
You
help your friends when they needs it.
I
walk to the store alone.
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