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• What Is a Modal Verb? | Definition & Examples

What Is a Modal Verb? | Definition & Examples

Published on February 14, 2023 by Eoghan Ryan . Revised on December 6, 2023.

A modal verb (also called a modal auxiliary verb ) is used along with a main verb to express possibility, ability, permission, or necessity. For example, in the statement “you must leave,” “must” is a modal verb indicating that it’s necessary for the subject (“you”) to perform the action of the verb (“leave”).

The modal verb “will” is used to form the future tense, indicating an action that has not yet occurred (e.g., “I will clean the garage”).

Can you drive me to the airport?

Table of contents

How are modal verbs used in sentences, modal verbs list, modal verbs and auxiliary verbs, modal verbs and mood, other uses of modal verbs, other interesting language articles, frequently asked questions.

Modal verbs are used along with a main verb to indicate ability, necessity, possibility, and permission. In sentences containing modal verbs, the main verb typically takes the infinitive form. Modal verbs come before main verbs and never change form.

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Below is a table that illustrates some of the various uses of modal verbs. Note that modal verbs are very commonly used in a wide variety of senses—this table doesn’t cover every possible usage.

Modal verbs are classed as a type of auxiliary verb . Auxiliary verbs are used along with a main verb to express tense, mood, or voice. However, unlike modal verbs, regular auxiliary verbs follow subject-verb agreement and must be conjugated for tense and mood.

Gordon has burned the toast.

Modal verbs can be used along with auxiliary verbs to refer to possible past, continuous, or future action.

When a modal verb is followed by another auxiliary verb (e.g., “have,” “be”), the main verb takes either the past participle form (typically ending in “-ed,” “-n,” or “-t”) or the present participle form (ending in “-ing”).

The modal verb “will” is used in all aspects of the future tense (e.g., “I will talk,” “you will be traveling ”).

You may be wondering what I mean.

The grammatical mood of a verb indicates the intention of the sentence. Modal verbs and auxiliary verbs are used along with a main verb to express mood.

Modal verbs have various other functions in English. They can also be used:

• In indirect speech
• In negative statements
• For emphasis

Indirect speech

Modal verbs are used in indirect speech to indicate what someone else said. While most modal verbs stay the same when used in indirect speech, the past form of some modal verbs is used instead (e.g., “can” becomes “could”).

Negative statements

In negative statements containing modal verbs, the adverb “not” comes immediately after the modal verb and before all other verbs. The negative form is often contracted (e.g., “would not” becomes “wouldn’t”).

In everyday conversation, people sometimes place emphasis on a modal verb to refute a previous statement or question. The emphasized word is often italicized when written down.

If you want to know more about commonly confused words, definitions, common mistakes, and differences between US and UK spellings, make sure to check out some of our other language articles with explanations, examples, and quizzes.

Nouns & pronouns

• Common nouns
• Proper nouns
• Collective nouns
• Personal pronouns
• Uncountable and countable nouns
• Verb tenses
• Phrasal verbs
• Sentence structure
• Active vs passive voice
• Subject-verb agreement
• Interjections
• Determiners
• Prepositions

Modal verbs (also called modal auxiliary verbs ) are used along with a main verb to express ability, possibility, necessity, and permission. They are a type of auxiliary verb .

For example, in the statement “I can drive,” “can” is a modal verb indicating that the subject (“I”) has the ability to perform the action of the verb (“drive”).

“Would” is a modal verb that’s often used along with the auxiliary verb “have” to indicate that something was possible in the past but no longer is (e.g., “She would have been a professional athlete if she hadn’t broken her leg”). It can be contracted to “would’ve.”

People sometimes mistakenly write “would of” because of its similar pronunciation. However, “would of” is never correct.

“May” is a modal verb used to indicate possibility (e.g., “I may miss the bus”), make a request (e.g., “May I have a drink?”), or indicate permission (e.g., “You may sit down”).

Sources in this article

We strongly encourage students to use sources in their work. You can cite our article (APA Style) or take a deep dive into the articles below.

Ryan, E. (2023, December 06). What Is a Modal Verb? | Definition & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 29, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/verbs/modal-verb/

Aarts, B. (2011). Oxford modern English grammar . Oxford University Press.

Butterfield, J. (Ed.). (2015). Fowler’s dictionary of modern English usage (4th ed.). Oxford University Press.

Garner, B. A. (2016). Garner’s modern English usage (4th ed.). Oxford University Press.

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Why is it important to study modal verbs?

This is the second of four chapters about Modal Verbs . To complete this reader, read each chapter carefully and then unlock and complete our materials to check your understanding.   

– Discuss the importance of modal verbs in English

– Provide examples of the twelve modal-verb functions

– Explore the challenges that students face when attempting to master modal verbs

Chapter 1: What are the nine English modal verbs?

Chapter 2: Why is it important to study modal verbs?

Chapter 3: What are the grammar rules of modal verbs?

Chapter 4: What are the twelve functions of modal verbs?

Now that you should recognise the fifteen verbs and verb phrases   that function as pure and semi-modals in the English language, this second chapter on modal verbs   discusses both the usefulness and challenges of this word type   in practice. Because it’s not possible to communicate effectively in the English language without frequently using such modal verbs, a student that wishes to become an effective academic should study this word type carefully.

H ow are modal verbs useful?

Because most of a proposition’s meaning is contained within a verb and its associated nouns , verbs are one of the most important word classes  for speakers of English. The two sentences below, for example, demonstrate that a statement may be understood when all words   other than verbs and nouns have been deleted:

As a type of auxiliary verb, and one that reportedly accounts for fifteen percent of all verb usage, modal verbs are clearly an important aspect of language learning. From an academic’s perspective, while it’s true that modal verbs are used much more commonly in speech than in academic writing, modal verbs still allow the speaker or writer to express twelve useful functions. These functions, which may be divided into attitudinal and communicative types, are provided for you below:

Why are modal verbs challenging for students?

Although there are a number of reasons that students of English make frequent mistakes when forming expressions that require the representation of modality , we’ve grouped these concerns into four distinct types.

1. Avoidance

While it may be possible to avoid using modal verbs   altogether and instead rely upon modal adjectives such as ‘possible’, modal adverbs   such as ‘perhaps’ or modal nouns   such as ‘probability’ – all of which function as hedging language , an overreliance of these word classes and an avoidance of modal verbs will likely make a writer’s or speaker’s language appear odd or unnatural, particularly to a native speaker of English.

As will be explored in much more detail in Chapter 3, the grammar   of both pure and semi-modals can also sometimes confuse students with mistakes leading to a break down in communication. Because modal verbs   lack the inflection of more ordinary lexical verbs , because they sometimes use present and past tense   forms such as ‘can’ and ‘could’ for functions other than demonstrating a timeframe, and because (unlike other auxiliary verbs such as ‘want’) they rarely precede full infinitives using ‘to’, it’s understandable that some students make many errors with this word type .

3. Pronunciation

Modal verbs can be pronounced with strong or weak forms when used in connected speech, and because such verbs are most commonly spoken in their quicker weak forms when combined with another verb, non-native speakers of English may sometimes fail to identify them. While failing to hear or understand a modal verb may generally have little effect on overall comprehension, some structures may create the potential for confusion. If, for example, ‘can’ were missed from the offer below, the listener may instead interpret that statement as a promise: 

4. Selection

Finally, as the same modal verb may be used to indicate a variety of functions, and because there may be multiple modal verbs that can indicate the same function, a non-native speaker of English may either (a) select an incorrect modal verb for their utterance, or (b) overuse the same modal verb where an alternative verb may have improved the appropriacy of their expression.

For further information about overcoming these issues, continue studying with Chapters 3 and 4 and explore the grammar and functions of modals in more detail.

Downloadbles

Once you’ve completed all four chapters about modal verbs , you might also wish to download our beginner, intermediate and advanced worksheets to test your progress or print for your students. These professional PDF worksheets can be easily accessed for only a few Academic Marks .

Our modal verbs  academic reader (including all four chapters about this topic) can be accessed here at the click of a button.

Gain unlimited access to our modal verbs  beginner worksheet, with activities and answer keys designed to check a basic understanding of this reader’s chapters.

To check a confident understanding of this reader’s chapters, click on the button below to download our  modal verbs   intermediate worksheet with activities and answer keys.

Our modal verbs  advanced worksheet with activities and answer keys has been created to check a sophisticated understanding of this reader’s chapters. 

To save yourself 5 Marks , click on the button below to gain unlimited access to all of our modal verbs  guidance and worksheets. The All-in-1 Pack includes every chapter on this topic, as well as our beginner, intermediate and advanced worksheets in one handy PDF.

Click on the button below to gain unlimited access to our modal verbs  teacher’s PowerPoint, which should include everything you’d need to successfully introduce this topic.

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100 Example Sentences with Modal Verbs

Modal verbs are a type of auxiliary verbs that are used to express ability, possibility, necessity, or permission. Modal verbs include can, could, may, might, must, ought, shall, should, will, and would. These verbs are typically used before the main verb in a sentence to indicate the level of ability, possibility, necessity, or permission involved. For example:

Sentences with Modal Verbs

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• Practise with Modals Exercises

Modals Exercise with Answers

Modal verbs like will, would, shall, should, can, could, may, might, must, need, and ought to are essential in English grammar . These verbs often act as helping verbs to express the possibility, probability , or necessity of an action. Understanding how to use modal verbs correctly can greatly improve communication skills.

This article provides a series of modals exercises focused on these modal verbs, prepared to help students practice and improve their knowledge. Try out these exercises and check your answers to see how well you've grasped the concepts.

Some examples of Modal verbs

I will finish my homework before dinner.

She will attend the meeting tomorrow.

They will travel to Europe next summer.

Would you like to join us for a movie?

She would often visit her grandparents on weekends.

If I had more time , I would learn a new language.

Shall we begin the presentation?

I shall inform you of any updates.

Shall I open the window?

You should exercise regularly to stay healthy.

He should apologize for his behaviour.

We should leave early to avoid traffic.

Can you help me with this maths problem?

She can run a mile in under seven minutes.

Can I borrow your book for a day?

Could you pass me the salt, please?

When I was younger, I could swim for hours.

Could we meet tomorrow to discuss the project?

May I come in?

You may leave the room once you finish your test.

The teacher may give us a surprise quiz today.

It might rain this evening, so take an umbrella.

She might come to the party if she finishes her work .

We might go to the beach this weekend.

You must wear a seatbelt while driving.

Students must submit their assignments by Friday.

We must respect the rules and regulations.

You need not worry about the exam; you've prepared well.

She needs to finish her project before the deadline.

You need to rest if you want to recover quickly.

You ought to take more care of your health .

They ought to be more considerate of others' feelings.

He ought to pay back the money he borrowed.

Before getting into the exercise. Watch Modal Verb for a quick revision and strengthen your conceptual understanding.

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks with the correct modal verb

I ____ call you when I reach home.

____ you please pass the salt?

She ____ finish her homework before going out to play.

He ____ speak French when he was a child.

You ____ go to the doctor if you feel unwell.

We ____ leave now to catch the train on time.

____ I open the window to let in some fresh air?

They ____ have taken the wrong turn.

You ____ bring a jacket; it’s cold outside.

____ we meet tomorrow to discuss the project?

He ____ not attend the meeting if he doesn’t want to.

____ I borrow your pen for a moment?

You ____ apologize for being late.

It ____ snow later in the evening.

You ____ to help your parents with the household chores.

____ you like to join us for dinner?

She ____ be at home right now.

You ____ not worry about the exam; you’ve prepared well.

The students ____ submit their assignments by Friday.

I ____ to finish this report by tomorrow.

____ you mind if I sit here?

We ____ be careful while crossing the road.

They ____ have forgotten about the meeting.

You ____ leave your bag unattended in public places.

He ____ work harder if he wants to pass the exam.

I will call you when I reach home.

Could you please pass the salt?

She must finish her homework before going out to play.

He could speak French when he was a child.

You should go to the doctor if you feel unwell.

We must leave now to catch the train on time.

Shall I open the window to let in some fresh air?

They might have taken the wrong turn.

You should bring a jacket; it’s cold outside.

Shall we meet tomorrow to discuss the project?

He need not attend the meeting if he doesn’t want to.

May I borrow your pen for a moment?

You should apologize for being late.

It might snow later in the evening.

You ought to help your parents with the household chores.

Would you like to join us for dinner?

She may be at home right now.

You need not worry about the exam; you’ve prepared well.

The students must submit their assignments by Friday.

I have to finish this report by tomorrow.

Would you mind if I sit here?

We must be careful while crossing the road.

They might have forgotten about the meeting.

You must not leave your bag unattended in public places.

He must work harder if he wants to pass the exam.

Exercise 2: Choose the Correct Modal Verb

Select the correct modal verb for each sentence from the options provided.

(Will/Can/May) you help me with my homework?

She (should/must/can) wear a coat; it's very cold outside.

They (might/must/could) have forgotten the meeting was rescheduled.

(Would/Should/Will) you be able to finish the project by Friday?

We (may/could/would) go to the beach if it stops raining.

He (might/could/would) have taken the wrong turn.

I (must/should/can) get a new phone; mine is outdated.

(Would/Can/May) you like some tea?

She (must/should/can) go to the doctor if she’s not feeling well.

We (might/should/can) visit them next week if we have time.

(Shall/Would/Can) we start the meeting now?

He (could/should/must) work late to complete the project.

You (may/should/could) not need to bring anything to the party.

They (might/should/would) have already left for their trip.

(Can/May/Will) I use your phone for a moment?

She (must/should/can) study harder if she wants to pass the exam.

We (may/should/would) finish the task by tomorrow if everything goes well.

(Could/May/Will) you be interested in joining our team?

He (might/should/can) get promoted if he continues to perform well.

You (must/could/would) see a doctor if you feel unwell.

Can you help me with my homework?

She should wear a coat; it's very cold outside.

They might have forgotten the meeting was rescheduled.

Would you be able to finish the project by Friday?

We might go to the beach if it stops raining.

He might have taken the wrong turn.

I need to get a new phone; mine is outdated.

Would you like some tea?

She should go to the doctor if she’s not feeling well.

We might visit them next week if we have time.

Shall we start the meeting now?

He might work late to complete the project.

You may not need to bring anything to the party.

They might have already left for their trip.

May I use your phone for a moment?

She must study harder if she wants to pass the exam.

We should finish the task by tomorrow if everything goes well.

Would you be interested in joining our team?

He might get promoted if he continues to perform well.

You should see a doctor if you feel unwell.

Exercise 3: Rewrite the Sentences Using Modal Verbs

Rewrite the following sentences using the appropriate modal verb in place of the given phrases.

It is necessary for you to study harder. → You ____ study harder.

It is possible that she will join us later. → She ____ join us later.

I am able to swim across the lake. → I ____ swim across the lake.

I suggest you try to solve the problem yourself. → You ____ try to solve the problem yourself.

You are allowed to take the day off tomorrow. → You ____ take the day off tomorrow.

It is likely that we will arrive late. → We ____ arrive late.

I offer to help you with your homework. → I ____ help you with your homework.

It is recommended that you see a dentist regularly. → You ____ see a dentist regularly.

There is a chance that they will come to the party. → They ____ come to the party.

I would prefer not to go out tonight. → I ____ prefer not to go out tonight.

You have an obligation to follow the rules. → You ____ follow the rules.

It is possible that he forgot about the meeting. → He ____ have forgotten about the meeting.

It is necessary for us to submit the report by Friday. → We ____ submit the report by Friday.

I am willing to assist with the project. → I ____ assist with the project.

It is advisable to take breaks during long study sessions. → You ____ take breaks during long study sessions.

They are allowed to leave early. → They ____ leave early.

I am suggesting that we take a break now. → We ____ take a break now.

It is not necessary for you to come to the meeting. → You ____ come to the meeting.

It is possible that it will rain this weekend. → It ____ rain this weekend.

He is able to speak three languages. → He ____ speak three languages.

2. Rewrite the Sentences Using Modal Verbs

It is necessary for you to study harder. → You must study harder.

It is possible that she will join us later. → She might join us later.

I am able to swim across the lake. → I can swim across the lake.

I suggest you try to solve the problem yourself. → You should try to solve the problem yourself.

You are allowed to take the day off tomorrow. → You may take the day off tomorrow.

It is likely that we will arrive late. → We might arrive late.

I offer to help you with your homework. → I would help you with your homework.

It is recommended that you see a dentist regularly. → You should see a dentist regularly.

There is a chance that they will come to the party. → They might come to the party.

I would prefer not to go out tonight. → I would prefer not to go out tonight.

You have an obligation to follow the rules. → You must follow the rules.

It is possible that he forgot about the meeting. → He might have forgotten about the meeting.

It is necessary for us to submit the report by Friday. → We must submit the report by Friday.

I am willing to assist with the project. → I would assist with the project.

It is advisable to take breaks during long study sessions. → You should take breaks during long study sessions.

They are allowed to leave early. → They may leave early.

I am suggesting that we take a break now. → We should take a break now.

It is not necessary for you to come to the meeting. → You need not come to the meeting.

It is possible that it will rain this weekend. → It might rain this weekend.

He is able to speak three languages. → He can speak three languages.

Exercise 4: Match the Modal Verb with Its Function

Match each modal verb with its primary function.

Test your Knowledge of Modal Exercises

Task 1: Complete the Sentences with Appropriate Modals

Fill in the blanks with the most suitable modal verb from the list provided

(will, would, can, could, should, might, must, may, need, ought to).

You ____ see a doctor if you have a persistent cough.

She ____ have missed the train; she was running late.

I ____ help you with the project if you need it.

They ____ be interested in the new job offer.

We ____ leave now to avoid traffic.'

Task 2: Correct the Incorrect Modal Usage

Review the sentences below and correct the modal verbs if they are used incorrectly.

She can finish the report by tomorrow if she will work late.

You must to be more careful while handling the equipment.

I might to join the team for the next project.

He would plays the guitar very well.

We should go to the park if it won’t rain.

Task 3: Choose the Best Modal Verb for Each Situation

Read each situation and choose the most appropriate modal verb from the options given.

Situation: Asking for permission to leave early.

Options: (Will, Can, Should)

Sentence: ____ I leave early today?

Situation: Suggesting a solution to a problem.

Options: (Could, Might, Need)

Sentence: You ____ try restarting your computer.

Situation: Indicating a strong obligation.

Options: (Would, Must, Might)

Sentence: You ____ complete the assignment by tomorrow.

Situation: Offering help to a friend.

Options: (May, Would, Might)

Sentence: ____ I help you with that?

Situation: Speculating about the weather .

Options: (Should, Could, Must)

Sentence: It ____ rain later this evening.

Task 4: Rewrite Sentences with Different Modal Verbs

Rewrite the following sentences using a different modal verb to convey a similar meaning.

She has to attend the meeting. → She ____ attend the meeting.

You are permitted to leave early. → You ____ leave early.

It is possible that he will come to the party. → He ____ come to the party.

I recommend that you take a break. → You ____ take a break.

We are required to submit the report by Friday. → We ____ submit the report by Friday.

Task 5: Create Sentences Using Modal Verbs

Write sentences using each of the following modal verbs in a way that shows their different functions.

Must (for obligation)

Could (for past ability)

Would (for polite requests)

Might (for possibility)

Shall (for suggestions)

Find Out if you Got them All Right from the Answers Below .

You should see a doctor if you have a persistent cough.

She might have missed the train; she was running late.

I can help you with the project if you need it.

They might be interested in the new job offer.

We should leave now to avoid traffic.

She can finish the report by tomorrow if she works late.

You must be more careful while handling the equipment.

I might join the team for the next project.

He plays the guitar very well.

We should go to the park if it doesn’t rain.

Can I leave early today?

You could try restarting your computer.

You must complete the assignment by tomorrow.

Would I help you with that?

It might rain later this evening.

She should attend the meeting.

You may leave early.

He might come to the party.

You ought to take a break.

We have to submit the report by Friday.

Must (for obligation): You must wear a helmet while riding a bike.

Could (for past ability): When I was younger, I could run a mile in under six minutes.

Would (for polite requests): Would you mind passing the salt?

Might (for possibility): We might go to the beach if the weather improves.

Shall (for suggestions): Shall we take a break now?

Still, finding it difficult to answer the questions? Watch the Complete guide on Modal Verb and score well for your exam.

Takeaways from this Page

Modal verbs play a crucial role in communication by expressing degrees of certainty, ability, permission, and obligation. They include verbs like can , could , might , and may , which help convey possibilities and abilities. Should and must indicate strong recommendations or obligations. For future intentions, will is used, while would is common for polite requests or hypothetical scenarios. Need and ought to express necessity and advice, respectively. The correct use of these modals depends on the context of the sentence. For example, can be used to indicate ability, and may be for permission. Modals are flexible and can convey different meanings based on their placement and context. Practising modal exercises helps in mastering their use and avoiding common errors, ultimately enhancing clear and effective communication.

FAQs on Practise with Modals Exercises

1. What are modal verbs?

Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs used to express ability, possibility, necessity, permission, or obligation. Common modals include can, could, may, might, shall, should, will, would, must, and need.

2. How do modal verbs differ from regular verbs?

Modal verbs do not change form for different subjects or tenses and are used with the base form of the main verb. For example, we say "She can swim" and not "She cans swim."

3. What is the purpose of modal exercises?

Modal exercises help learners practice using modal verbs correctly in various contexts, improving their ability to express different degrees of certainty, necessity, or permission.

4. How can I choose the right modal verb for a sentence?

Consider the context of the sentence. For example, use can for ability ("She can play the piano"), may for permission ("May I leave early?"), and must for strong obligation ("You must finish your homework").

5. Are there rules for using modal verbs in questions?

Yes, when forming questions with modal verbs, place the modal verb before the subject. For example, "Can you help me?" or "Should we start now?"

6. How can I correct mistakes in modal verb usage?

Review the function of each modal verb and its appropriate contexts. Practice identifying common errors and understanding the correct usage, such as distinguishing between might (possibility) and must (necessity).

7. What are common mistakes with modal verbs?

Common mistakes include using the wrong modal verb for the intended meaning, incorrect verb forms, or misunderstanding the degree of certainty. For example, saying "He might come" instead of "He might come."

8. How can I improve my understanding of modals?

Regular practice through exercises, reading, and writing sentences using modals can improve your understanding. Additionally, paying attention to how modals are used in real-life contexts, such as in conversations and texts, helps.

9. Can modal verbs be used in all tenses?

Modal verbs themselves do not change with tenses. Instead, they are used with the base form of the main verb. For past contexts, use modals like could and would ("He could swim when he was younger").

10. Where can I find more modals exercise with answers?

Modals exercise with answers can be found in grammar workbooks and the Vedantu Website. Many of these resources offer interactive exercises to enhance your skills.

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Passive Voice with Modal Verbs with Rules and Examples

Passive voice and modal verbs are two essential aspects of English grammar, each serving a unique purpose. Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express certainty, possibility, permission, or obligation in a sentence. On the other hand, the passive voice is a grammatical construction in which the subject receives the action rather than performing it. In this article, we’ll explore how modal verbs and passive voice work together to create different sentence structures. We’ll also share rules and examples to enhance your understanding of this concept. So, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

What is Passive Voice?

Passive voice is a way of constructing sentences where the subject of the sentence receives the action of the verb rather than performing it. In passive voice, the focus is on the receiver of the action rather than the doer. For example, “The ball was kicked by Sarah.” In this sentence, the ball (the receiver) is the focus, even though Sarah (the doer) is mentioned.

Structure: Subject + (to be) + past participle + (by + agent, if mentioned)

Passive voice is formed by using a form of the verb “to be” (such as “is,” “am,” “are,” “was,” “were,” etc.) followed by the past participle form of the main verb. It’s often used when the doer of the action is unknown, or unimportant, or when the focus needs to be shifted to the receiver of the action.

What are Modal Verbs?

Modal verbs are a category of auxiliary verbs (also called helping verbs) that express the mood or attitude of the speaker toward the action or state of the main verb in a sentence. These verbs indicate possibility, necessity, permission, ability, obligation, or likelihood. In English, the most common modal verbs include:

• Can: Shows ability or possibility.
• Could: Often used for past ability or polite requests.
• May: Expresses permission or possibility.
• Might: Indicates a possibility, often with uncertainty.
• Must: Shows necessity or strong obligation.
• Shall: Used for making suggestions, promises, or offers.
• Should: Indicates advice, obligation, or expectation.
• Will: Shows future intention or prediction.
• Would: Used for polite requests or hypothetical situations.
• Ought to: Used to express moral obligation or duty.

Passive Voice with Modal Verbs Rules

When combining passive voice with modal verbs, the modal verb appears before the main verb in its past participle form.

Modal + Be + Past Participle

Use a modal verb (can, should, must, might, will, could) followed by a form of the verb “to be” (am, is, are, was, were) and the past participle of the main verb.

• Structure: M o d a l V er b + be ( am / i s / a re / w a s / w ere) + p a s t p a r t i c i pl e
• The problem can be solved.
• The document may be misplaced.
• The solution should be considered.

Modal + Have Been + Past Participle

This structure is used to talk about actions that were completed or ongoing at a specific time in the past.

• Structure: M o d a l V er b + ha v e b ee n + P a s t P a r t i c i pl e
• The problem can have been solved.
• The document may have been misplaced.
• The solution should have been implemented.

These structures allow us to express various ideas such as possibility, necessity, permission, etc., in passive voice. The first structure emphasizes actions that can happen, are expected, or are allowed to happen, while the second structure highlights actions that likely happened or were ongoing in the past.

Passive Voice with Modal Verbs

It is a grammatical construction where the subject of a sentence receives the action, and a modal verb is used to express the possibility, necessity, permission, or other qualities of the action. Below is a list of Passive Voice with all Modal Verbs along with their structure and example sentences.

• It indicates ability, possibility, or permission.
• Structure: Subject + can + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The problem can be solved easily.
• Represents past ability, possibility, or permission.
• Structure: Subject + could + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The task could have been completed earlier.
• Expresses permission, possibility, or likelihood.
• Structure: Subject + may + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The decision may be reconsidered later.
• It suggests a possibility or uncertain future.
• Structure: Subject + might + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The missing keys might be found soon.
• Conveys necessity, obligation, or a strong recommendation.
• Structure: Subject + must + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The rules must be followed by all participants.
• It indicates a future event or offers a suggestion.
• Structure: Subject + shall + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The decision shall have been made by now.
• Advises or recommends something.
• Structure: Subject + should + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The instructions should be followed carefully.
• Indicates future events, intentions, or promises.
• Structure: Subject + will + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The message will be delivered by noon.
• Expresses hypothetical situations or polite requests.
• Structure: Subject + would + be/have been + past participle
• Example: The problem would be solved with the right approach.
• Used to suggest moral obligations or duties.
• Structure: Subject + ought to + be/have been + past participle
• Example: Safety precautions ought to be taken seriously.

Passive Voice with Modals Examples

• The matter will be discussed.
• The contract would be signed.
• The problem can be solved .
• The document may be misplaced .
• The cake may be baked by the chef.
• The solution might be overlooked .
• The keys might be found later.
• The issue might be resolved .
• The task should be completed .
• The form should be filled out.
• The project must be approved.
• The rules must be followed.
• The report must be reviewed.
• The problem ought to be addressed.
• The news will be announced soon.
• The job will be done by the deadline.
• The decision ought   to be respected.
• The agreement shall be signed shortly.
• The task should have been completed.

Passive Voice with Modal Verbs Exercises

Put the following sentences into passive voice. (Modals)

• The problem can be solved by her.
• The assignment must be finished by him.
• The room should be cleaned by them.
• The museum might be visited by us.
• The house will be painted by them.
• A cake would be baked by her.
• The puzzle could be solved by him.
• The car needs to be repaired by them.
• The report has to be written by her.
• The project has to be finished by us.
• The event had to be canceled by them.
• She might have been forgotten.

Q1. What is passive voice?

Passive voice is a grammatical construction where the subject of a sentence undergoes an action rather than performing it. In passive-voice sentences, the focus is on the action or the recipient of the action rather than the doer.

Q2. What are modal verbs?

Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express various attitudes including possibility, necessity, permission, ability, obligation, and prediction. The ten main modal verbs are can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, would, and ought to.

Q3. How do you form passive voice with modal verbs?

To form passive voice with modal verbs, you use the modal verb followed by “be” and the past participle of the main verb. For example: “The door can be opened.” Here, “can” is the modal verb, “be” is the auxiliary verb, and “opened” is the past participle of the main verb “open”.

Q4. What is the function of modal verbs in passive voice constructions?

Modal verbs in passive voice constructions indicate the possibility, necessity, permission, ability, obligation, or prediction associated with the action being described in the passive voice sentence. They modify the verb to convey the desired meaning.

• The assignment could be finished.
• The proposal may be approved.
• The task must be completed.
• The report shall be submitted.
• The decision ought to be respected.

You May Also Like:

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IELTS Grammar: How to Use Modals for Opinions and Suggestions

by Dave | IELTS Grammar | 2 Comments

Students who want to achieve band 7+ for their IELTS Writing Task 2 need to use a wide range of grammar structures. In this article I show you how to use a range of modals naturally to express opinions, as well as make suggestions and predictions, which will help improve your grammar band score.

For more examples of good grammar in use, check out our task 2 sample answers here:  ielts sample answers ., you can also subscribe to our youtube channel for some ielts speaking sample answers:  howtodoielts youtube ., be sure to avoid the mistakes that most students make on writing by signing up now for my exclusive ielts ebooks here on patreon., grammar doesn’t have to be complex , although there is no ‘grammar test’ as part of the ielts exam, it makes up  25% of your ielts writing and speaking scores ., in order to get a high band score for your writing you need to be able to naturally use a wide range of grammar structures. for task 2 writing, this means correctly using complex structures , but it also means using more basic structures naturally, including modal verbs., sample essay, below is a sample essay for the following question..

Some people think that all university students should study whatever they like. Others believe that they should only be allowed to study subjects that will be useful in the future, such as those related to science and technology.  Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Look at the phrases that are in bold. For each one, do you think they are expressing (saying) something more  certain or less certain?

One question that has caused a great deal of controversy over the years is which subjects students study at university. i believe that students should have the choice to study whatever they like. however we have to overcome the problem of enough graduates in important subjects. in this essay the arguments surrounding this issue will be discussed.  , many people argue that students should choose their own subjects at university. the principle reason for this is because students will probably be more motivated so they will be more likely to work harder and for longer and therefore achieve more, be more successful and probably more satisfied. a good example is a student who has a passion for art or science. they will be more likely to do extra work to improve their knowledge or develop their skills to a higher level. another reason is that if students follow their passion it can often lead to more creativity. an example here is steve jobs, who followed his passions to become one of the most creative and successful entrepreneurs of modern times., other people suggest that students should not be allowed to choose. they argue that if society allowed students to do this, then we might be left with a lack of graduates in some ‘core’ subjects essential for the future. an example here is important subjects such as science or technology, which might not be popular without encouragement. this could result in a less skilled labour force with a negative impact on the economy. however i would suggest that this is not a serious problem as we could deal with this issue by making core subjects more attractive. this could be done through financial policies, for example reduced fees, offering bursaries or guaranteeing jobs for studying the target subjects., in conclusion, there are clear advantages of allowing students to choose their own subjects both for individuals as well as wider benefits. nevertheless we must ensure there are enough students who select important subjects. this could be achieved using financial incentives or job guarantees. regardless, we must always make sure our universities are flexible enough to meet the challenges that society will face in the future.       , use the correct grammar for the right situation, let’s look at the sample answer again. i’ve coloured phrases that are more certain in  red  and phrases that are less certain in green . it’s now clear to see that in my first body paragraph i am more certain about my opinions, whereas in the second body paragraph i am less certain., first body paragraph: , second body paragraph: , analysis:  first body paragraph ( more certain ), in this paragraph i am confidently explaining my opinion about why students should choose their own subjects, by suggesting they’ll probably be more motivated, work harder and be more successful., so i use language that matches my confidence. however this is academic writing so i’m still not 100% confident. look at the table that compares good and bad ways to express certainty., i didn’t say “students will be more motived so they will work harder” or “if students follow their passion they will be more creative.” , this is too strong so instead i used “ will probably be more motivated ” or “ can often lead to more creativity “.

Analysis:  Second Body Paragraph ( less certain )

In this paragraph i first make predictions about possible negative effects of allowing students to choose (a lack of graduates for important subjects and it’s possible impact on the economy). then i suggest a possible solution (making important subjects more attractive through financial incentives)., by using less certain language, i show that these are just possible ideas. i didn’t say “we will be left with a lack of graduates.” or “this will result in a less skilled workforce.” or even “this can be done through financial policies.” , those structures are too strong for academic writing so instead i used   “ we might be left with a lack of graduates. “,   “ this could result in a less skilled workforce. ” and “ this could be done through financial policies. ” , plan your language, as well as brainstorming and organising ideas ,  it’s important to think about how certain you want to be about these ideas.  yes, i said want because remember your essay doesn’t have to follow your real opinions, and you should try to use a range of grammar., when you are planning your body paragraphs, keep in mind what language you will use to express your opinions and suggestion/predictions. for example if you have a discuss both sides question , which requires you to choose a side ,   then use more certain language for your chosen side but use less certain language for the other side., likewise in a problem and solution essay ,  you could choose to use stronger language to talk about the seriousness of the problem, but weaker language to discuss solutions., now it’s your turn put your answers in the comments..

Governments should spend money on railways rather than roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Brainstorm some main ideas – then write some strong/weak opinions and strong/weak suggestions or predictions using suitable language.

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Choosing and allocating the budget of the country is a huge issues for the government. Different problems are being found day by day in the country. Some problems are in healthy, some are in economics and some in transportation and etc. The government need to deal with that problems. For me I do not totally agree with the idea that the government should spend money on railways instead of roads.

The principle reason for the road is compulsory that the locals will probably be inconvenient in transportation. The student will probably be more late in school because they must wait for the trains and lead them waste of their time. If the roads are more comfortable, the people will more have options to go such as motorbike, bicycle, car and bus. If the roads are good they will probably be more convenient in their daily lives. If the government choose road, there will probably be needed for extra costs especially for train and vice visa.

There is an advantage if the government will probably spend money for the railways. The people might be probably fast when they travel from one city to another. This could result they might reach on time wherever they want to go. But o the other hand, the government will need to consider for those who do not want to take public transportation, train road will be more suitable option. That is why the government should spend the budget for the road rather than railways. This could save the financial problem of the government to some point.

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Here is some brief feedback: avoid phrasal verbs, write 3 paragraphs, and try to be more formal generally.

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ESSAY SAUCE

FOR STUDENTS : ALL THE INGREDIENTS OF A GOOD ESSAY

Modal verbs

A modal verb is a verb which is used with another verb to express such ideas as possibility, ability, and necessity, e.g. computers can perform a wide range of tasks. Modal verbs in English can present some difficulties for learners. They occur quite frequently in the academic context and the range and variety of their use can make understanding and using them correctly quite a challenge.

The nine main modal verbs express a range of meanings, which may differ very subtly.

Modal verbs are used to indicate the writer’s or speaker’s attitude to what he or she is writing or saying. There are three main categories of meaning.

• possibility/ability/permission
• obligation/necessity
• intention/prediction

Expressing possibility, ability and permission

The most common meaning for modal verbs in the category of possibility, ability and permission is logical possibility: indicating what is or is not possible from what we know about a situation. All four modals in this category (can, could, may, might) are used in this way.

Can is frequently used to indicate ability.

The use of can and may to ask or give someone permission is common in speech but rare in formal writing, because it involves personal interaction.

Expressing obligation and necessity, intention and prediction

In the category of modal verbs expressing obligation and necessity there are two main meanings found in formal writing. The first meaning is that of personal obligation; the writer states what he/she and perhaps the reader is obliged to do/believe etc. using a modal verb such as must or should.

The second meaning is that of logical necessity; the writer states what he/she wants the reader to conclude from the information presented using a modal verb such as must or should.

Using modal verbs to express intention and prediction clearly relates to future time. This is a large and complex area of English grammar, and here the focus is on the modals will, would and shall; how they are used and how they can be distinguished.

will and would are commonly used in formal writing to predict future events or states that are not caused by anyone. Very often the period or point in time is not mentioned.

shall is used to indicate the writer’s personal intention. This is a formal and conventional use of this modal.

Helpful sites for practice

Online English Grammar http://www.edufind.com/english/grammar/index.cfm Online grammar explanations with examples.

Gerunds and Infinitives http://www.reocities.com/gwyni_99/gerinfless.html Grammar explanation plus links to practice exercises and a useful verb list.

Gerunds, Participle and Infinitives http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/grammar/g_verbals.html Detailed information with practice in this area of grammar.

Language and Learning Online http://www.monash.edu.au/lls/llonline/index.xml A comprehensive set of resources for grammar. Provided by Monash University, Australia.

Dependent Prepositions http://www.wordskills.com/general/prepositions.pdf A pdf reference list of common dependent prepositions.

British Council Learnenglish Grammar Games http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/grammar-games Grammar games to practise most aspects of grammar.

Grammar Terms Quiz http://esl.about.com/library/quiz/bl_grammarterms.htm Test your knowledge of grammar terminology by matching examples to grammar terms.

Using English.com – Glossary of grammatical terms http://www.usingenglish.com/glossary.html A comprehensive online glossary of grammatical terms.

Englishpage.com http://www.englishpage.com/index.html Grammar practice website.

Englishclub.com http://www.englishclub.com/grammar/index.htm Grammar practice website.

SOURCE: The Open University, 2011

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Essays about: "modal verbs"

Showing result 1 - 5 of 19 essays containing the words modal verbs .

1. Reader Address and its Translation in a Gardening Guide : Pronouns, Modals and Imperatives

Author : Micaela Nilsson ; [2023] Keywords : Reader address ; modal verb ; imperative verb ; pronoun you ; second person pronoun ; generic pronoun ; translation ;

Abstract : This study examines the translation of three forms of reader address from English to Swedish in a gardening guidebook – the pronoun you as a second person reference and generic reference, modal verbs, and imperatives. The translation was made by the author of this study. READ MORE

2. What essentially might be almost certain about climate change : The translation of hedges in popular science

Author : Sofia Hamberg ; [2022] Keywords : covert translation ; hedging ; lexical hedges ; modal strength ; modification ; omission ; popular science ; retained translation ; strategic hedges ;

Abstract : This study investigates how hedges are used in an American popular science text about the effects of climate change and to what extent their translation to Swedish is retained or modified concerning modal strength. Furthermore, the study seeks to explain the reasons behind translation choices, which affect the level of modal strength and or linguistics alterations in the target text. READ MORE

3. The Use of Syntax and Lexicon Structures in Political Discourse : A Case Study of Boris Johnson’s Speeches on COVID-19

Author : Pantelia Emmanouil ; [2022] Keywords : Boris Johnson ; Covid-19 ; Lexicon Structures ; Political Discourse Analysis ; Syntax Structures ;

Abstract : In their book, Fairclough and Fairclough (2013) claim that political leaders’ main role is to make choices in difficult situations. Due to the coronavirus outbreak worldwide, every political leader was called to make difficult decisions and to announce them to their respective public. READ MORE

4. Modality in Spiritual Literature : A Corpus Aided Discourse Study on Sadhguru and Eckhart Tolle

Author : SHOWMIK JOY BHOWMIK ; [2022] Keywords : Spirituality ; mystics ; modality ; modal shading ; epistemic ; deontic ; bigrams ; CADS ;

Abstract : This study investigates and discusses how two spiritual teachers from different parts of the world interact with their devotees, what the probable impacts of their interaction are, and whether they speak similarly or differently based on the use of modal auxiliary verbs and pronouns. Linguistically speaking, the mystics mostly have to address their audience/readers in a particular manner with expressions which represent certainty, possibility, obligation and so on; thus, a study of such is necessary and modal auxiliary verbs represent such expressions. READ MORE

5. Hedges in Translation : A Study on the Translation of Hedging Devices from English to Swedish in a Non-Fiction Text

Author : Sara Norlund ; [2022] Keywords : Hedges ; hedging devices ; translation ; English to Swedish ; non-fiction texts ; retention ; modification ; omission ; addition ;

Abstract : This paper examines the translation of hedging devices from English to Swedish in a non-fiction history book, and more specifically, which strategies are used in the translation process and why. To get a clear overview of the different hedging devices that are found in the ST, they are divided into categories, which are then analyzed individually with illustrative examples. READ MORE

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Question asked by Filo student

S.5.y Let's Practise A Identify the verbs in these sentences and state whether they are transitive If the verb is transitive, underline its object/objects. 1. He runs a small grocery store. 2. I wake up at 6 a.m. 3. I stopped the car. 4. His grandfather died last year. 5. The thief stole the car. 6. I am looking for my passport. B Identify and highlight the subject complement in yellow and the object co 1. Prabha is very intelligent. 2. Our neighbour's dogs are very dangerous. 3. I find Rita intelligent. 4. We painted the house blue. 5. You are making me sad. 6. He became my best friend. Choose the correct auxiliary verb. 1. Mira has / have gone to the party. 2. We was / are going to meet our friends tonight. 3. I have / am finished my homework. 4. We had/was to visit that place in the morning. 5. Do / Have you want some coffee? 6. This house are / is made of stones. D Fill in the blanks with appropriate modal auxiliary verbs. 1. you solve this puzzle? a. Can b. May c. Might 2. Although she worked hard, she not pass the exam. a. Can b. could c. will 3. Sheena have already left. c. was

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