(Perfect) Modal Verbs

You ........ speak three languages fluently! That’s impressive.

• can

• must

• cannot

• needn't

Answer explanation

REMEMBER!

The modal verb "CAN" expresses abilities.

For example: She can read / I cannot run

Someone tells you:

We ............... leave early tomorrow to catch the first train.

Answer explanation

REMEMBER:

The modal verb "HAVE TO" expresses obligation.

Es una obligación que viene de fuera, alguien te lo impone

Name just ONE use for the modal verb "could"

(Clue: There are four uses)

Answer explanation

REMEMBER:

We use the modal verb "COULD" to express...

an ABILITY in the PAST

a WEAK POSSIBILITY

a FORMAL REQUEST

a SUGGESTION

"Must have + past participle" is used...

• when someone had the ability to do something, but didn’t do it

• when we are sure that something is true

• when it is possible that something is true

• to criticise or express regret

"Should have + past participle" is used...

• when someone had the ability to do something, but didn’t do it

• when we are sure that something is true

• when it is possible that something is true

• to criticise or express regret

Why is SHOULD HAVE + PAST PARTICIPLE used here?

• "You should have studied harder for the exam. Your grade isn’t good."

In the past, people ........ survive without the internet, but now it seems impossible!

• could

• must

• need to

• ought to

Answer explanation

REMEMBER!

The modal verb "COULD" expresses an ABILITY in the PAST

You tell your classmates:

"We ....... submit the report by Friday. It's mandatory"

Answer explanation

REMEMBER!

The modal verb "MUST" expresses obligation.

Es una obligación impuesta por ti. Sabes que tienes que hacerlo.

"May/Might have + past participle" is used...

• to criticise or express regret

• when we are sure that something is true

• to show that someone had the ability to do something, but in the end didn’t do it

• when it is possible that something is true

"Could have + past participle" is used...

• to criticise or express regret

• when we are sure that something is true

• to show that someone had the ability to do something, but in the end didn’t do it

• when it is possible that something is true