Modal verbs can be used in a variety of different forms. Study the examples below.
| Modal Simple I could swim at the beach. Modal Continuous I could be swimming at the beach right now. Modal Perfect I could have swum at the beach yesterday. Modal Perfect Continuous I could have been swimming at the beach instead of working in the office. | Passive Modal Simple The room should be cleaned once a day. Passive Modal Continuous The room should be being cleaned now. Passive Modal Perfect The room should have been cleaned yesterday. Passive Modal Perfect Continuous The room should have been being cleaned but nobody was there. (Rare form) |
Can
Should
Must
Note that all subjects take the same form of the modal.
Positive
Subject + Modal + Base Form of Verb + Objects
Examples
He can play the piano.
I must leave soon.
Negative
Subject + Modal + Not + Base Form of Verb + Objects
Examples
They can't visit next week.
You shouldn't go to that film.
Question
Modal + Subject + Base Form of Verb + Objects
Examples
Can you help me?
What should I do?
Giving Advice with Should
'Should' is used when asking for or giving advice. It is also used when asking for suggestions.
Examples
I think you should see a doctor.
What type of job should I get?
Expressing Ability with Can
'Can' is used to speak abilities.
Examples
He can speak Japanese.
Can you play golf?
Asking for Permission with May
'May' is used to ask for permission.
Examples
May I help you?
May I visit you this afternoon?
NOTE: In spoken English, 'Can I ...?' is often used instead of 'May I ...?'
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