MODALSAlejandro Ferry

Modals■Modals are verbs that are used in

conjunction with other verbs (Example: MUST GO). These verbs help speakers and writers express their attitude to what they speak o write about. Modal verbs are used to express responsibility, obligation, probability, etc.

Modals expressing ABILITY

MODALCAN

CANNOTBE + ABLE TO

See

See

See

CANHas the ability or capabilityFuture/Present Tense• I can juggle three balls.Past• I could juggle three balls when I was workingas an entertainer.

Back

CANNOT

Back

Lack of ability or capabilityFuture/Present Tense• I cannot juggle three balls.Past• I could’nt juggle three balls when I was workingas an entertainer.

Be + able to

Back

Has the ability or capabilityFuture/Present Tense• I am able to swim.Past• I was able to swim that time because he helpedme.

COU

LD Expresses general ability in the past (or lack of ability if used with NOT) When I was

young, I could sing very high pitched songs

WAS/WERE ABLE TO + VERBManaged to do in a very specific

occasion in the past. (MANAGED TO)Example:I was able to answer all questions in the exam.

COULD IS ALSO USED FOR SENSE IN THE PAST

SEE, HEAR, SMELL, TASTE, FEEL, REMEMBER and

UNDERSTAND