Modal verbs
3 lessons about modal verbs in English, explained in Spanish. Practice with exercises and download worksheets.
- A1Grammar 14 min
Can and can't
Can and can't for what you know how to do or are able to do: I can swim, she can't drive. Questions, short answers, how can't sounds, and exercises.
View lesson - A1Grammar 13 min
Can I...? Can you...?
Can I...? to ask for permission and Can you...? to ask for favors, with please and could to sound polite. How to answer, plus exercises.
View lesson - A1Grammar 13 min
Would like
Would like to ask and offer politely: I'd like a coffee, Would you like some tea? With a thing or with to + verb, plus exercises.
View lesson
What is Modal verbs?
Modal verbs (can, could, may, might, must, should, will, would) add a shade of meaning to the main verb: possibility, permission, obligation, advice or ability. They are always followed by the base verb, without to, and they do not change with the person: "She can swim", "He must go".
When to use it
Use them to ask permission ("May I come in?"), give advice ("You should rest"), express obligation ("You must wear a seatbelt"), talk about possibility ("It might rain") and make polite requests ("Could you help me?").
Common mistakes and tips for Spanish speakers
- No to and no -s after a modal: "She can swim", never "She can to swim" or "She cans swim".
- For questions, move the modal to the front: "Can you help?". Do is not used.
- Must and have to are not always the same: in the negative, "mustn't" forbids while "don't have to" means it is not necessary.
Examples
You should see a doctor.
Deberías ver a un médico.
Can I use your phone?
¿Puedo usar tu teléfono?
It might snow tonight.
Podría nevar esta noche.
You mustn't park here.
No debes estacionarte aquí.