The verb shud in English. Modal verbs in English. Modal verbs

In the English language, in addition to verbal units that express action, there is a group of verbs that serve to fix modality in speech. In simple terms, they express not the action itself, but various kinds of relationships of a certain nature to these actions. Together with the infinitive, modal units form a compound predicate. In general, this is another group of “nasty” verbs in the English language. Modal form of the English verb The origin of these words is lost in the darkness of centuries. In any case, I was unable to come across a thread that would lead me to their origins. No matter how hard I tried to find out their basis from various sources, I did not find anything unambiguous, but also no intelligible explanation.

They differ from ordinary verbs in a number of features, which you can familiarize yourself with a little later. However, in my opinion, their most important feature is that they convey not the state or action of a person or object, but precisely our attitude: “I must know this table" or "I I want to learn these words."

What is meant by the word "attitude"? The speaker can evaluate any action as necessary, possible, requested, permitted, very probable, unlikely, prohibited, ordered, etc. Depending on the speaker’s assessment of the situation and the structure of the sentence, one of the modal verbs is used in speech.

In total, linguists managed to fix 4 actual modal ones, 4 of their main analogues, as well as 6 units of a multifunctional type.

Modal verbs in English: Modal verbs in English

• Can/Could
• May/Might
• Be to
• Have to / Have got to
• Should
• Ought to
• Would
• Used to
• Shall

The first three are used most often in speech. These verbs sometimes replace other relational words because they have a more general meaning.

Formation of sentences

Modal verbs in English form interrogative sentences without the auxiliary unit to do, and the construction itself is in preposition: Shall I help you?

The negative form in a sentence is formed by placing the particle not in postposition. Often, especially in oral communication, they merge into one form and are reduced. See table:

If you want to learn how to construct sentences correctly, then you must remember that modal verbs, excluding have (got) to, ought to and be to, are followed by a bare infinitive, and the to particle disappears: I must go.

Distinctive features

Their second name is insufficient, due to the fact that they do not have a number of grammatical forms that other words have - states or actions. Modal verbs in English have the following features:

• They are not conjugated by numbers and persons, that is, in the 3rd person singular they do not form the ending -s. The exceptions are need to, have to and be able to, since they have a conjugation paradigm
• They are used in speech together with semantic verbs, which at the same time lose the to particle, or can be omitted in the context of a text or conversation: I have to
• Lack of gerunds, participles and impersonal infinitives due to the lack of complex tense forms (see next point)
• There is no future or past tense, and there are no continuous or perfect forms, with the exception of may (might) and can (could)

To make it easier to understand the rules for using modal verbs, carefully study this table:
Table of modal verbs Why do you need to know modal verbs?

Their correct use in spoken literate English confirms that you have mastered a level of English that has crossed the initial basic level of everyday communication. And if you don’t use them in your speech when communicating with an American or a British person, then this means that you are still at the initial stage of learning English and do not have sufficient competence.

Therefore, improve, grow, create a positive impression! Good luck!

There are no analogues of modal verbs in Russian. However, speaking English without using modal verbs is almost impossible. It is recommended to start learning grammar by including them in the program.

Modal verbs need to be known like the multiplication tables, as this is considered Elementary English.

Modal verbs are not used independently and do not denote a specific action, but reflect the speaker’s attitude to the action, i.e. modality. This is their secret - simplicity and complexity at the same time.

List of modal verbs and their equivalents

Interrogative and negative forms of modal verbs

• Modal verbs form interrogative and negative forms independently, without using the special verb “to do”. In this case, the modal verb is placed at the beginning of the sentence in the question.

Shall I help you?
Should I help you?

Could you give me his address, please?
Can you give me his address, please?

Non-finite forms, such as the infinitive, gerund and participle, are not inherent in modal verbs. Modal verbs lack complex tense forms and the imperative mood. For all persons and numbers, modal verbs use a single unchangeable form.

• Negative form modal verb is formed by placing the particle “not” after it. Often, especially in oral speech, they merge into an abbreviated form. In colloquial speech the following abbreviations are usually used in the negative form: cannot = can"t, could not = couldn't may not = mayn't, might not = mightn't must not = mustn"t, ought not = oughtn"t, need not = needn't.

You can't help him.
You can't help him.

She might not come here.
She couldn't (she didn't have permission) to come here.

These signs allow you to rely on modal verbs when studying. Having memorized a small number of modal verbs, the student has a chance to immediately construct simple sentences based only on simple verbs. And this is very important. You will already be able to express your opinion with only a fairly small number of words in your arsenal.

Verbs of obligation (must, have to)

The main verbs of obligation are “must” and “have to”. " Must» expresses necessity committing actions(usually according to some rule or law), as well as an order or advice. Translation: “should”, “need”, “must”. " Have to" talking about necessity committing actions under forced circumstances when you clearly don’t want to do something, but, as they say, “you have to.” Usually translated into Russian as " must», « forced», « have to».

I have to work overtime.
I have to work overtime (I don't want to, but I have to do it).

You mustn't smoke at the airport.
You can't smoke at the airport (that's the rule).

Requests (shall, will)

“Shall”, “will” are also called modal verbs in combination. With their help you can create future times. As soon as " shall", "will" appear in a sentence - this is a sure sign debt, necessity, order or even threats. « Will"means a desire or intention, a polite request.

I want to come in. Shall I open the door?
I want to come in. I probably (should) open the door?

Will do you give me the ketchup?
Can you pass me the ketchup?

These verbs are original transmitters of the desired form of modality, and not only can form the future tense.

It is recommended to remember that after modal verbs, in addition to the verbs “ought to”, “have (got) to” and “be to”, an infinitive without the particle “to” is used. It is also called bare infinitive.

I must go.
I have to go.

Verb " ought to"is an obligatory verb. But unlike " must", which means must in connection with the requirements of rules, laws, authorities, "ought to" means obligated due to moral obligations. It's such a subtle difference. For example:

You ought to visit your parents more often.
Visit your parents more often.

You must keep the law.
Follow the laws.

Possibility, probability (can, may, must, might)

Most often, modal verbs “can”, “must”, “may” are used in this meaning. These are verbs of general meaning with the ability to replace other modal verbs. Modal verb " can" - the most popular. The usual translation into Russian is “to be able”, an expression of skill and ability to do something. For example:

I can help you.
I can help you.

The verb "can" is in the past tense " could" For example:

She could dance beautifully when she was young.
She could dance beautifully when she was young.

Modal verb " must", like "can", is used very often in speech. It is important to remember that in addition to its primary meaning - “to be due”, it is also used when we talk about the likelihood that something has happened. And this probability borders on certainty. For example:

I phoned, but nobody answered - they must be at work.
I called, but no one answered - they must be at work (i.e. I'm pretty sure of it).

Modal verb " may" has two main meanings: resolution and probability. Past tense form - " might" For example:

May I come in?
Can I come in? (Permission).

I might have taken only three seconds to show it to you.
It might only take me 3 seconds to show you this.

But " might» can also be used completely independently, meaning “possibly”. If we compare “may” and “might”, then in the case of the latter something may happen, but it is unlikely; if you say " may“—then the probability is greater. For example:

The sky is gray - it may rain today. They might come, but I don’t think so.

Past tense (Perfect Infinitive)

Perfect Infinitive, along with other infinitives, has no analogues in Russian. In speech it is used according to the following formula: have + 3rd form of the verb. Since most verbs do not have a past tense form, we use the Perfect Infinitive to show that something happened in the past. For example:

You should have called me yesterday.
You should have called me yesterday.

Passive voice with modal verbs

When we change a sentence from "active" to "passive", we must change the predicate of the sentence.

First, you need to put the verb " to be” at the same time as used in the main sentence. Secondly, put the main verb in third form(Past Participle).

So, to compose a sentence with a modal verb, we need to put the verb to be in combination with the modal verb. It will look like this:

must be(it should be);
have to be(it should be);
ought to be(should be);
can be(May be);
should be(should be);
be supposed to be(it is believed that; it is assumed that;)

The secretary must write a letter. / The secretary must write a letter.
The letter must be written by the secretary. / The letter must be written by a secretary.

He has to do this test. / He must perform this test.
This test has to be done by him. / This test must be performed by him.

He was supposed to send an email an hour ago. / He was supposed to send the letter an hour ago.
The email was supposed to be sent by him an hour ago. / The email was supposed to be sent an hour ago.

Features of modal verbs

• Does not have a 3rd person singular present tense, that is, they are not placed with “-s” at the end.
• No infinitive, ing form and participle; never answer the question of what to do / what to do?
• They only require the form after themselves " Infinitive» without particle « to" (exception - " ought to», « have(got) to" And " be to"). I must go.
• Interrogative And negative forms proposals are built without an auxiliary verb « do", with the exception of the verb " have to».
• Verbs " have», « be», « should"can be not only modal, but also auxiliary, and the verbs " need», « have», « be», « get" - also semantic.
• According to their properties, English modal verbs, except “ have to», « have got to», « be to», « dare"are insufficient, that is do not have personal forms, and in connection with this do not form complex verb forms.

What does turnover mean: be supposed to and had better

The phrase “be supposed to” means that someone or something is expected to perform some action. If we select the Russian equivalent, the closest expressions are like: “in theory it should”, “as if it should”, “it is implied that it should”. It happens in the present (am / is / are) and past (was/were) tenses.

“Be supposed to” - rather than expressing an obligation, it expresses the expectation of performing some action.

I am supposed to obey my lord.
In theory, I should obey my master (but in reality I don’t obey that much).

I am supposed to do my duty.
I must do my duty (but if I don’t do it, no one will notice).

Excuse me, you are not supposed to …
Sorry, but you can't...

“You are not supposed to” is a polite way to tell someone not to do something or to let them know they shouldn’t do it.

With turnover " had better“almost the same situation, only he expresses recommendation, desperation, warnings or threats. The modal verbs “ought to” and “shall” can be equivalent. Happens only in past form.

You had better take your umbrella with you today.
Today you better take an umbrella with you. (Expresses a recommendation.)

That bus had better get here soon!
I wish this bus would come sooner! (Expresses despair.)

You'd better not talk the way you talk to me in the future!
From now on, you better watch how you talk to me! (Expresses a warning, a threat.)

Modal verbs in indirect speech

Similar to tenses, modal verbs change in indirect speech if the words being conveyed are no longer true or are out of date.

Direct speech: can, may, will, must.
Indirect speech: could, might, would, had to.

Peter: "I can stay here until Sunday."
Peter: "I can stay here until Sunday."
He said that he could stay there until Sunday.
He said he could stay there until Sunday.

Dan: "You may don't need this"
Dan: “You might not need it.”
He said I might don't need that.
He said I might not need it.

Kelly: "My dad won't let me go to the party."
Kelly: "My dad won't let me go to the party."
She said that her father wouldn't let her go to the party.
She said her dad would let her go to the party.

Luke: "We must leave at 8 o"clock."
Luke: "We have to leave at 8 o'clock."
He said we had to leave at 8 o"clock.
He said we had to leave at 8 o'clock.

Using modal verbs with the perfect infinitive

Modal verbs can be used in combination with the perfect form of the infinitive, also called the modal perfect ( modal perfect). At the same time, the semantic load of the perfect infinitive has different meanings and depends on the specific modal verb and context.

The use of the modal perfect can name an action in the past, an unreal action, the degree of confidence in a certain action, and can also indicate that the opposite of the expected action took place.

Formula: modal verb + have + V3.

After modal verbs, the verb " have", forming a perfect infinitive, is pronounced in a reduced form:

They must have gone away already. ["mʌst"əv] - They must have already left.

In negative and interrogative sentences, the modal verb " can", used with the perfect infinitive, conveys disbelief into an action or event, past:

She can't have overslept. She is never late.
She couldn't sleep. She is never late.

• Could. The verb group (“could” + perfect infinitive) can be used with a meaning similar to “can”, but expresses a less categorical form:

I don't believe he could have done it. He is too weak.
I can't believe he could do this. He's too weak.

I didn't believe he could have done it. He was too weak.
I didn't believe he could do this. He was too weak.

Also, the perfect form of the verb is used with the modal verb “could” to indicate an action that could have happened, but did not happen:

We could have gone, but we didn't.
We could have left, but we didn't.

• May. The use of the modal verb may in combination with the perfect infinitive expresses assumption, uncertainty in what happened:

She may not have known about it. But it doesn't constitute justification.
She may not have known about it. But this is no excuse.
I"m not sure but he may have been here.
I'm not sure, but he could be here.

• Might. The use of the past tense form of the verb may indicates less likely to act or events:

Don't be angry with her. She might not have known about it.
Don't be mad at her. She may not have known about it.

• Must. This modal verb with a perfect infinitive indicates the certainty or high probability of an action occurring in the past and relevant to the present moment:

I figured I must have hurt the muscle while playing.
I think I must have injured a muscle while playing.
I can't find the keys. I mustn't have taken them.
I can't find the keys. I probably didn't take them.

• Need. In combination with a perfect infinitive, it expresses doubt about the appropriateness of an action performed in the past; it is used only in interrogative and negative sentences:

Need have you done it?
And what was the need for you to do this?
He needn't have been present all the time.
He didn't need to be there all this time. (There was no need).

• Ought. Expresses censure, reproach for what was not done or was done incorrectly:

You ought to have done it previously.
You should have done this earlier.

• Will. Used to express determination, desires or the intention to perform an action that must be completed before a certain time in the future or before the beginning of another action:

I won't have done it by the time you get back.
I (not finish) will not do this by the time you arrive.

• Would. Used to express desired subject of action, but which didn't happen:

I wouldn't have done it. But I was so young.
I didn't want to do this. But then I was still so young.
I would have come, but I got stuck in traffic.
I would have come, but I was stuck in traffic.

Conclusion

Modal verbs are easy to learn and understand, since they have many similarities with the native Russian language. Although there are some differences. In any case, they will be a good help in moving forward for anyone who wants to improve their knowledge of the English language.

Big and friendly EnglishDom family

Learning English is impossible without delving into the topic of modal verbs, which are used in constructing complex and simple sentences. In the article we will tell you what a modal verb is, how to use it correctly in various vocabulary constructions, and form declarative and interrogative phrases..

English modal verbs

Modal Verbs are a separate part of the English language that works according to its own rules that differ from regular and irregular verbs. To avoid confusing English modal verbs with anything else, they should be memorized. Teachers introduce students to a table that tells about the rules of application and the role in the sentence.

If we talk about the differences between regular and irregular verbs, they differ in the principle of formation of the past tense. The peculiarity of regular forms is the formation of their characteristic ending -ed. Incorrect ones completely change their structure: ending, root, prefix.

Verbs are also classified into main and auxiliary. The main ones perform an important lexical role and talk about a certain action. Easily and organically translated into Russian. Auxiliaries complement them and are responsible for grammatical functions. They have no analogues in Russian.

All modal verbs in English can be compared to auxiliary verbs; they have a complementary function, but a more significant one. According to the rules, modal verbs express the relationship of the subject in the action inherent in the sentence or phrase.

Types of modal verbs

The main feature of modal verbs in English is the conveyance of the attitude of the main character to what is happening. There are 5 modal verbs that should be memorized:

• may/might
• will / would
• shall/should
• can/could
• must

There are also additional verbs that can also be classified as modal, but they partially have their properties. These are the formsdare, ought to, need and others. Now about the formats in which modal verbs are used. Characteristics of expressions:

• confidence, assertion
• request, suggestion
• advice, expression of opinion
• formal request
• obligation

Forms of modal verbs are actively used in live speech. Therefore, if you want to achieve a level of fluency in English, pay special attention to this topic.

Forming verbs in different types of sentences

There are no clearly defined rules when it comes to changing the structure of verbs. Only some modal forms are subject to declension. So, for example, can is used in constructions of the present and past tenses; it is not applicable for the future. The same situation with the verb may is used in all tenses except Future. But this does not mean that forms are not suitable for expressing thoughts in the future tense. To express thoughts in the sentence structure, will is added.

If we talk about the arrangement of modal verbs in a sentence, there are a number of rules that need to be followed in constructing phrases. In statement expressions, modal verbs are used before the verb responsible for a specific action and after the main noun. When negated, the particle not must be added to the verb (exception - have to). In an interrogative sentence, a change of positions is required - the modal verb, contrary to the rules of placement in affirmative constructions, comes before the noun, replacing the auxiliary verb.

Rules for using modal verbs

In order to freely express your thoughts and emotionally color your speech structure, you should remember the most commonly used modal verbs, which will help you correctly compose affirmative, interrogative, and incentive sentences, or express a request or wish. We take note: must, can, may, ought to, need, should, to be able to, have to, manage to.

Now about the rules for using modal forms. Remember three main ones:

1. The particle to is not used after modal verbs, except for the forms ought to, need to, have to.
2. Modal verbs do not have endings attached to them (the exception word is manage to).
3. A verb denoting action, in combination with a modal, takes on the form of an infinitive.

Examples:

You should look for another way out. -You ought to find another way.

I have to go, it's late. -I need to go, it's late.

Students must follow university rules.Students must follow university rules.

You must complete this task by tomorrow evening. -You have to do this task till tomorrow evening.

Using the modal verb can/could

Translated into Russian, this verb means “I can, I can,” and can convey the meaning of a certain skill. Can is used in the present tense, could - in the past. To construct a sentence in the future tense, the form will be able to is used.

Examples:

Two years ago I saw much better. -I could see much better two years ago.

I can draw very well because I had a good teacher. -I can draw very well, because I had very good teacher.

Explain the problem, we can help you. -We will be able to help you, explain the problem.

When constructing a negative sentence, the particle not is added to the modal verb:

The students could not prepare for this competition. -Students couldn`t be ready for this competition.

I can't find my keys in this mess. -I can't find my keys in this mess.

If you want to correctly construct a question with a modal verb, just swap the words. The subject moves to the background, and the modal verb itself comes to the fore.

Modal verb must

Students of our school must follow the Charter. -Pupils of our school must follow the Regulation.

The opposite meaning takes on the form must not:

Your family shouldn't move to another city. -Your family must not move in another town.

In interrogative phrases, must becomes the beginning of a sentence:

Should tigers be kept in cages? -Must the tigers be kept in the cages?

The command tone is lost with the appearance of the particle be:

It must be noisy living in the center of a big city. -It must be noisy to live in the center of the big city.

Modal verb should

Examples:

You should stay with him while he is sick. -You should stay with him while he"s sick.

To express negation, a combination with the particle not is used:

You shouldn't spend a lot of time on the computer. -You shouldn't spend a lot of time at the computer.

The same rules apply to the construction of interrogative sentences. Modal verbs come to the fore:

Should we take a vacation in May? -Should we take a vacation in may?

Should this driver slow down? - Should this driver slow down?

Modal verb may/might

These verbs express uncertainty and are translated as “may, may.” In the present tense we use may, in the past tense we use might.

Examples:

He might have had lunch. -He might be having lunch.

This may be true. -It may be true.

I can be the best student in college. -I may be one of the best students in this college.

To introduce negation into a construction, the particle not is traditionally used:

It can not be true! -It may not be truth!

We form an interrogative sentence according to the standard rule: we start with a modal verb:

Can I sit on the chair? -May I sit on a chair?

Modal verbs to be able to/manage to

The form is used in the sense of “to be able, to be able.” The difference from could is that it is situational and is used in certain cases:

The water came in very quickly, but everyone managed to get into the boat. -The water came very fast, but all managed to get in the boat.

We lost the puppy, but then we were able to find him. -We lost the puppy, but then we could find him.

In interrogative sentences:

Can my baby put on his shoes without your help? - Kid was able to put on shoes without your help?

In negative constructions:

I was unable to complete this work on time. -I didn't manage to do this work on time.

Modal verb need

Directly translated into Russian, this verb means “to need.” It is considered one of the most common in the English language. Here are examples that are often found in real life:

I need to meet you tonight. -I need to get up with you tonight.

Mom needs help, put things aside and pay attention to her. -Mom needs help, put things down, and pay attention to her.

When using negative forms, you are faced with a choice: the particle not, which is familiar to modal verbs, or the auxiliarydo/does/did. Examples:

You don't need to spend extra money on gifts. -You do not need to spend extra money on gifts.

You do not need to write letters to this address. -You needn`t write letters to this address

When structuring a question phrase, the above auxiliary verbs come first:

Do you need time to get ready for a walk? -Do you need time to get ready for a walk?

Practice using modal verbs in practice. Teachers recommend communicating more with native speakers. If this is not possible, find someone to talk to on Skype.

Modal verbs and their equivalents - Modal verbs in English and their equivalents

Abstract to the material: Unfortunately, the topic of modal verbs and their equivalents in English is often poorly covered, especially in school textbooks. The maximum that an interested reader can find in them is only “superficial” information, which in a real language situation with a native English speaker can only aggravate the situation. As a result, one’s own experience, often negative, becomes the teacher and the actual means of revealing this topic. The purpose of this material is to correct the current situation.

The first and main concept in this topic is the concept of modality in linguistics: modality- expression of the speaker’s attitude to the content of his utterance.
Modal verbs express an attitude towards an action (its necessity, probability, possibility of its completion, etc.).

Features of modal verbs in English

1. They do not change by person, do not have the ending -s/-es in the third person, singular (except for the equivalents of modal verbs: to have (to), to be (to), to be obliged (to)).
She can swim; he must be tired; it might rain later.
She has to wake up early; we are to read "War and Peace"; I am obliged to you for your recent help.
2. Auxiliary verbs are not added to them when constructing interrogative and negative sentences. In such sentences, the modal verb itself plays the role of an auxiliary verb: in questions it takes place before the subject, and in negations the particle not is added to it (exceptions: to have (to) is used in questions and negations with an auxiliary verb; in to be (to) and to be obliged (to) be in questions is used before the subject in the appropriate person and number (am/are/is) and adds the particle not in questions).
Shall do we go for a walk? Can I help you? What should I do?
He can"t dance; you mustn"t steal; you shouldn't lie.
Does he have to know I"ve never been kissed? Are we to meet inside? Is he obliged to attend the audition?
She doesn't have to drink coffee; I am not to work today; I am not obliged to pay for this.
3. Not all modal verbs have forms of future and past tenses, and when they are expressed, they are replaced by equivalents. It is more correct to consider aspectual forms of modal verbs as separate modal verbs, and not as forms of one due to their significant difference in use; in some cases this also applies to negative forms. All explanations and examples for this paragraph are further in the material.
4. They do not have an infinitive form of the verb (infinitive) or -ing forms. In such cases, the equivalents are used:
I"d love to be able to ski; I hate having to get up on cold mornings.
5. After them, the particle to of the semantic verb is not used (except for equivalents). The exception is the modal verb ought to.
You must go; I"ll help you; you have to visit him; you ought to see a doctor.
6. Can be used with a perfect infinitive to describe actions that happened in the past:
You should have told me that you can"t swim: you might have drowned!
7. Each modal verb has at least two meanings:
A. Expresses probability or possibility
b. Expresses an opinion, judgment, attitude.

Modal verbs can be divided into two categories:

Table of modal verbs in English

Abbreviations: can not = can"t = cannot, could not= couldn"t, may not = mayn"t, might not = mightn"t, must not = mustn"t, shall not = shan"t, should not = shouldn't "t, will = "ll, will not = won"t, would = "d, would not = wouldn"t, need not = needn"t, dare not = daren"t ().

Expression of obligation

The modal verb must, the equivalents to have (to), to be obliged (to), to be (to), as well as the multifunctional verb will express the strong form of obligation.

Must is personal a verb of obligation and expresses personal desire or even demand of the speaker. This modal verb must be used very carefully:
You must come up to the reception in order to join a library. You must go to the reception desk to sign up for the library (meaning I want, require, actually order you to go to the reception desk, not just say it). The reaction of people who hear such “advice” will be quite obvious.
But we can say:
I must get my hair cut. I have to cut my hair (I want it so bad).
In addition, must is used in official and written speech, often in impersonal sentences:
Books must be returned on or before the due date. Books must be returned no later than the specified deadline (library rule).

To have (to) expresses an obligation based on any rules or laws, on the authority of another person or on circumstances.
I can't play tennis tomorrow. I have to go to the dentist. I won't be able to play tennis tomorrow. I need to go to the dentist (I have an appointment).
Children have to go to school until they are sixteen. Children under sixteen years of age must go to school (law).
Mum says you have to tidy your room before you go out. Mom says you should clean your room before you leave. This sentence reflects the mother’s order and not the speaker’s order; On behalf of the mother, this requirement looks like this:
You must tidy your room before you go out. You must clean your room before leaving (I want it so much, I order you to do it).
Compare:
Mum says you must tidy your room before you go out. In fact, this sentence means: "Mom says that I (speaking) I demand that you clean your room before you leave." Must is a personal modal verb; when someone's personal speech is conveyed in an indirect form, it is replaced by to have (to)/to have got (to).
A few examples to compare must and to have (to)/to have got (to) :
I must stop smoking. I have to quit smoking (I want to).
I "ve got to stop smoking. I must quit smoking (doctor's orders).
Questions with must are possible, but very rare. To have (to) is used much more often:
Must you buy these shabby jeans? Do you really need to buy these distressed jeans? (Is this what you want?)
Do you have to wear a tie at work? Should you wear a tie to work? (Do you have such a rule?)

The negative forms must not and do not have (to) are significantly different. Mustn't used to express prohibitions; don't have (to) denotes the absence of an obligation (any action can be performed if you want, but this is not obligatory).
You must not leave bicycles in front of the portal. It is prohibited to leave bicycles in front of the main entrance.
Passengers must not speak to the driver! Passengers are prohibited from talking to the driver!
You mustn't steal other people's things. It's wrong! You can't steal other people's things! It's illegal!
Some people iron their socks, but you don"t have to. I think it"s a waste of time. Some people iron their socks, but you don't have to. I think it's a waste of time.
When you go into a shop, you don't have to buy something. You can just look. When you come to a store, you don't have to buy something. You can just look.

To be obliged (to) is also the equivalent of the modal verb must, but is used much less frequently than to have (to). The difference is that to be obliged (to) is a little more formal and expresses an obligation related to social, legal and moral aspects:
"The Constitution does not oblige government to avoid any public acknowledgment of religion's role in society," Anthony Kennedy said in his opinion.
I am obliged to you for your gracious hospitality. I thank you for your hospitality.

Equivalent to be (to) expresses an obligation due to some agreement, in accordance with a plan or schedule.
The train is to arrive. Why is it still at the station? The train must depart (according to the schedule). Why is he still at the station?

Should And ought (to) express weak obligation or advice. Both modal verbs express what the speaker thinks is true.
You"re always asking me for money. I think you should spend less. You constantly ask me for money. I think you should spend less.
You ought to be more careful with your money. You need to be more careful with your money.
You shouldn't sit so close to the TV! It's bad for your eyes. You shouldn't sit so close to the TV! It's harmful to the eyes.
There is practically no difference in the use of should and ought (to), but sometimes the latter expresses a moral duty:
You ought to visit your grandmother. You should visit your grandmother.
or regret:
You ought to help me! You must help me! (But you don't help.)

Multifunctional verb will as a modal verb in the 2nd and 3rd person singular. and many more numbers express an order, obligation or recommendation. The use of this verb is often resorted to in military institutions and schools.
You will do as you"ve been told.
The crew will come forward at midnight! The crew must depart at midnight!

Expression of permission, permission

Can, could, may, might, to be allowed (to) are used to express permission and permission.

Can used to ask and state permission, while can"t to deny this permission.
- Can I ask you a question? Can I ask you a question?
- Yes, of course you can. Of course you can.
I"m sorry, you can"t come in here. Unfortunately, you can't come here.

Modal verb could used as a more polite form.
Could you do me a favor? Could you do me a favor?

Modal verb of permission may more formal and used much less frequently than can:
May I come in, sir? May I come in, sir?
Can and could (but not may) are used to talk about what is usually allowed.
Can you park in this street in Sundays? Is it possible to park on this street on Sundays?

Equivalent to be allowed (to) replaces may in the past and future tenses, is used as an infinitive and participle and has no significant difference in meaning with the modal verb may.
You"ll be allowed to go out. You will be allowed/allowed to go out.

Past form may - might used in the meaning of permission/permission is used only in the subordinate part of a sentence (mainly in indirect speech), when the verb of the main part is in the past tense, in other cases the equivalent to be allowed (to) is used.
Austin said you might take his diary. Austin said you could take his diary.
I was allowed to take the diary. I was allowed to take the diary.

Expression of ability, possibility

The ability or possibility of performing any action is expressed using the modal verb can, its equivalent to be able (to) and the expression managed (to).

To be able (to) means the same as can, but can is used much more often. To be able (to) more formal.
Can you come to a meeting next week? Can you come to the meeting next week?
Please inform us if you are able to attend a meeting next week. Please let us know if you are able to attend next week's meeting.
To be able to have temporary ones? e forms that the modal verb can does not have:
I"d love to be able to fly. I would really like to be able to fly.
I like being able to jollify if I want. I find it nice to be able to have fun whenever I want.
I"ve never been able to cook. I never knew how to cook.
She"ll be able to see you tomorrow. She will be able to meet you tomorrow.

To express ability/possibility in general, a modal verb is used in the past tense could.
I could swim when I was four. I knew how to swim when I was four years old.
And to express a one-time action in a certain situation in the past, it is used to be able (to) or expression managed (to).
The woman was drowing, but a lifeguard managed to swim to her and pull her out of the water. That woman was drowning, but a rescuer was able to swim to her and pull her out of the water.
The prisoners were able to escape by bribing the guards. The prisoners were able to escape by bribing the guards.
The exception to this rule are verbs of feeling and perception. The modal verb could is used with such verbs.
When we came into the building, I could smell something burning. When we entered the building I smelled something burning.
We could remember where I lost my passport. I was able to remember where I lost my passport.

Couldn't used to express the inability/impossibility of performing an action in the past.
My mother couldn't swim until she was 47. My mother couldn't swim until she was 47.
I couldn't find my wallet anywhere. I couldn't find my wallet anywhere.

Note: Can and can't can be used to express a future action if the speaker decides at the moment of conversation (that is, he knows for sure) that he can or cannot perform it.
I can see you tomorrow morning for half an hour. I can meet you tomorrow morning for half an hour.
Compare:
One day we will be able to live without wars. Someday we will be able to live without warriors.

Shall I/we... ? used as a request for advice, as a proposal or an invitation (in Russian it is often translated as an affirmative rather than an interrogative sentence).
Shall I carry your bag? Let me carry your bag.
What shall I do? What should I do? (Advise me.)
Shall we dance? Let's Dance.
Shall we go to the seaside or the mountains? Shall we go to the coast or to the mountains? (Advised.)

Expression of confidence, probability

In addition to ought, permission and ability, modal verbs can express degrees of certainty and probability. The following modal verbs are arranged in order of "fading" degree of probability that they express: must, will (would) could, may, might, can't. For greater clarity, the above modal verbs can be assigned an approximate percentage of probability:

Must And can"t are used to express a logical conclusion: must - logically possible and can"t - logically impossible. Both verbs by no means mean one hundred percent certainty of the possibility or impossibility of an action due to the lack of certain facts, but express a very high degree of it.
Martin must have some problems - he is kind of sullen. Martin must have problems: he's kind of gloomy.
There's the doorbell. It must be Rodger. He always comes home at this time. Someone rings the doorbell. It must be Roger. He always comes home at this time.
Suzie can't have a ten-year-old daughter! She's only twenty-five herself! Susie can't have a ten year old daughter! She herself is only twenty-five!
You can't be serious. I know you are joking. You're not serious. I know you're joking.

Could, may And might usually emphasized in speech.
Dave and Lucy aren't at home. They could be in the theatre, I suppose. Dave and Lucy are not at home. I think they can be in the theater (≈80% certainty; Dave and Lucy often go to the theater).
We may go to Greece for our holidays. We haven't decided yet. Perhaps we will spend a vacation in Greece. We haven't decided yet (≈50% certainty).
She may be at home. She may be at home (≈50% certainty).
Ann might be there too. Perhaps Anne is there too (≈20%; low confidence)
According to the radio, it may rain today (≈50%). It might even snow (≈20%). According to the radio it may rain today. Or maybe even snow.

The continuous infinitive is used after the modal verb of probability to express possible activities occurring at the moment.
His light"s on. He must be working late. The light is on. It must be working.
It"s only 8:10. They can"t be having a break yet. It's only ten minutes past eight. They can't have a break.

Design modal verb + perfect infinitive expresses the degree of probability in the past:
They could have moved house. They could have moved.
Robert must have gone out. Robert must have left (he is not at home now).
She passed me in the street without speaking: she can"t have seen me. He passed me without even saying hello: I think she didn’t see me.
I rang Helen but she didn’t reply, so I suppose she may have been in the bath. I called Helen, but she didn’t answer, I think she was in the bathroom.

As already mentioned at the beginning of this material, each modal verb can express probability and judgment. The listed must, could, may, might, can"t more than express all possible ways of indicating probability and are suitable for almost all life situations. But despite this, probability can also be expressed: should, ought (to), will, would and need Cases of their use in this meaning are quite rare, but they still exist.

Should And ought (to) express an assumption based on facts.
They should all be of equal speed. They probably all have the same speed.
It ought not to be very hard to get the village. It probably won't be very difficult to get to this village.

Will And would express an assumption based on the subjective opinion of the speaker.
We heard the phone call. "That would be Charles", I said, knowing I was right. We heard the phone ringing. “It’s probably Charles,” I replied, knowing that I was right.
That will be the postman, I expect. It's probably the postman.

Need used in negative sentences to mean an assumption about the optionality of an action.
It doesn't take you very long. It is unlikely that this will take you much time.

Expression of desire, intention, determination

Desires and intentions are expressed by multifunctional verbs will And would, used with 1st person singular. and many more number in a construction with an imperfect infinitive. Usually shall is used with the first person, and the use of will gives a connotation of determination and desire. In such cases, the modal verb will is not shortened to “ll and is stressed in the sentence; in Russian it is either not translated at all or translated as “want”, “certainly”, etc.
I will do it whether you like it or not. I'll do it anyway, whether you like it or not.
I will answer you as soon as I can. I will certainly answer you as soon as I can.
I will let you know! I'll definitely let you know!
I would tell you, I swear! I would have told you, I swear!
In addition, would is used quite often in constructions:
would rather be preferable
would better
would sooner sooner
I"d rather go for a walk. Perhaps I'll go for a walk.
I"d better pay more at once instead of paying every week. I'd rather pay more immediately than pay every week.
She"d sooner break up with me then apologize to me. She would rather break up with me than ask for forgiveness.

Will and would in negative form used with animate nouns to express refusal and reluctance, and with inanimate nouns they indicate non-functioning, resistance or opposition:
I won't come back here again. I will never come back here again.
She won't go to the cafe. She doesn't want to go to the cafe.
Would in the meaning of negation can be used both for the present and for the past tense:
I wouldn't lend him even a pence.
I invited Eric several times, but he wouldn't come.
The window won't open. The window won't open.
The car wouldn't start. The car won't start.
The pen won't write. The pen doesn't write.
Will and would in questions express polite requests, suggestions and invitations. Would is a less formal and more polite verb and is more often associated with a conversational style.
Will you have some more juice? Would you like some more juice?
Will you give him this package? Would you give him this parcel?/Give him this parcel, please.
Will you wait a few? Wait a little, please./Will you wait a little?
More polite would:
Would you show me that vest? Please show me that vest over there.
Would you help me? Could you help me?
In addition, would is often found in colloquial speech in such stable expressions as:
Would you mind... Be kind.../Be kind.../Do you mind...
Would you like... Would you like.../Would you like...
Would you be so kind as to...Would you be so kind.../Be kind...
Would you mind clothing the door? Do you mind closing the door?/Please close the door.
Would you like to take a walk? Do you want to take a walk?/Don't you want to take a walk?
Would you be so kind as to remove your finger from the pie? Please take your finger away from the pie.

Modal verb need expresses necessity and is used only in questions and negations.
You needn't lie to me. You don't need to lie to me.
In speech, need is mainly used not as a modal, but as a regular (semantic) verb and, accordingly, is used with auxiliary verbs, the particle to and takes endings that depend on time.
You don't need to lie to me. You don't need to lie to me.

A similar situation is observed in the case of the verb dare, which has translations: “to dare”, “to dare”, “to dare”, “to dare”, etc. Dare can also be used as a semantic and as a modal verb, but in fact it is used mainly as a modal (as opposed to need). Dare as a modal verb is used only in interrogative and negative sentences.
Dare you use my own knowledge against me? You dare to use my knowledge against me?
I dare to ask you a private question. I dare to ask you a personal question.

Related materials:

If you're learning English from scratch, be prepared to learn a radically different system of verbs. The English tense system and reading rules are very different from Russian. Quite often, beginners in learning, when faced with the first difficulties, give up. Nevertheless, the rules of English grammar are quite easy to understand.

Modal verbs

A modal verb is a special unit in the English language that is subject to a separate rule. There are several types of verbs in English: regular, irregular, modal. The list of irregular verbs is separate; you need to know it by heart. Regular and irregular verbs differ from each other in the way they form the past tense. Regular verbs form past tense forms by adding irregular verbs change their form completely. In addition, verbs are divided into main and auxiliary. The main ones have a lexical function and denote a specific action. Such verbs are translated into Russian. Auxiliary verbs exist only in pairs with main verbs and have a grammatical function. These verbs have no translation into Russian. Modal verbs in English have an additional function in relation to main verbs, which equates them in function to auxiliary verbs. They denote the relationship of the subject to the main action: obligation, need or ability to do something. That is, I must know or know how to swim, I can tell you, and so on.

Modal verbs: rules and examples

For comfortable language proficiency, you need to know the following list of modals must, may, need, ought to, should, have to, to be able to, manage to. As for the rules for using modal verbs, the basic principles are:

1) we do not add endings to modal verbs (with the exception of the modal verb manage to);

2) we do not put the particle to after modal verbs (except need, have to, ought to)

3) the main verb after the modal is placed in the infinitive form (initial form)

For example:

I need to go, it's late. I have to go, it's late.

You have to do this task till tomorrow evening. You must complete this task by tomorrow evening.

You ought to find another way. You should find another way out.

Students must follow university rules. Students must follow university rules.

My mother is very clever, she can speak five languages. My mother is very smart, she speaks five languages.

Modal verbs are similar in their meaning, but there are still some differences. Let's take a closer look.

Modal verb can/could

This modal verb is translated as “I can, I am able”; it can mean a skill or ability to do something. Can- present tense form, could- past tense form. If you use modal verbs according to the rule in the future tense, use the form of the modal verb to be able to - will be able to. For example:

I can swim very well, because I had very good teacher. I can swim very well because I had a good teacher.

I could see much better several years ago. A few years ago I saw much better.

We will be able to help you, explain the situation. We can help you, explain the situation.

According to the rules, the negative form of modal verbs is formed by adding not - can not, the abbreviated form can"t. For example:

I can't find my book in this mess. I can't find my book in this mess.

Could not, shortened form of couldn't. For example:

Students and pupils could be ready for this competition. Pupils and students could not prepare for this competition.

To formulate an interrogative sentence with a modal verb can/could you need to use reverse word order in the sentence, that is, put the modal verb first, not the subject. For example:

Can Mike take your shirt, his is dirty? Can Mike take your shirt, his is dirty?

Verb in interrogative form could has a polite connotation, you can use it to ask permission. For example:

Could you borrow me some salt? Can you lend me some salt?

Modal verbs to be able to/manage to

Another modal verb with the meaning “to be able to” to be able to. But if could has more general boundaries, then be able to is used in particular, specific situations. For example:

The fire spread very quickly, but everyone was able to escape. The fire spread very quickly, but everyone was able to escape.

We didn't know where is my cat, but finally we managed to find him. We didn't know where my cat was, but we were eventually able to find him.

Past form of the verb to be able to - was/were able to. Past form of the verb manage to - managed to.

To create an interrogative sentence, you need to put an auxiliary or modal verb first. For example:

Was she able to get out of the room without your help? Was she able to get out of the room without your help?

Who manage to beat the best player? Who can beat the best player?

To form a negative sentence, use the particle not or an auxiliary verb. For example:

I didn't manage to do this work without instructions. I couldn't do this job without instructions.

Modal verb must

The modal verb must expresses an extreme obligation. If you are learning English from scratch, you should know that you need to be careful with this verb, since it has a commanding meaning. When you want to give a recommendation rather than a command, you should choose a different verb. For example:

Pupils of our school must follow the Regulation. Students of our school must follow the Charter.

The modal verb must in the negative form means “is not obliged.” Formed by adding a negative particle not for example:

Your family must not move in another town if they don"t want to. Your family doesn't have to move to another city if they don't want to.

To form interrogative sentences, put must first place in the sentence.

Must the animals be kept in the cages? Should animals be kept in cages?

In addition, the verb must has another meaning. We say must be in the sense of “must be, probably.” For example:

You must be very hungry because you have missed the dinner. You must be very hungry because you missed lunch.

It must be very noisy to live in the center of such a big city. It must be very noisy living in the center of such a big city.

Modal verb may/might

May and might, like all modal verbs, according to the rule, complement the main verb. The translation of this verb is “maybe, it’s possible.” May is the present tense form, might is the past tense form. For example:

I may be one of the best students in this college. I can be the best student in college.

Where is my bag? It might be in your room. Where is my bag? She could be in your room.

He might be having lunch. He might have had lunch.

It is very strange explanation, but may be true. This is a very strange explanation, but it may be true.

To make a negative sentence, use the negative particle not - may not, might not.

It may not be truth! It can not be true!

An interrogative sentence is formed according to the general rule: put the modal verb in first place. For example:

May I open the windows, is it very hot? Can I open the window, it's very hot in here?

Modal to

It means "have to, should, must." It has three forms in present, past and future tense: have/has to, had to, will have to. For example:

You will have to stay in this flat till next summer. You will have to stay in this apartment until next summer.

She has to cook the dinner immediately. She urgently needs to prepare dinner.

We have to go away, there is no place for us anymore. We must leave, we don't belong here anymore.

My friends had to finish the work, but they failed. My friends had to do the work. but they couldn't.

To form a negative sentence with a modal verb have to need to add an auxiliary verb do/does/did and the negative particle not. For example:

You don't have to watch the film until the end. You don't have to watch the movie to the end.

These people didn't have to fix your car free. These people were not obligated to fix your car for free.

Mary doesn't have to buy all the food for you. Marie doesn't have to buy food for you.

To write an interrogative sentence with modal verbs according to the rule, have to you need to add an auxiliary verb do, does or did first place in the sentence. This is called reverse word order in a sentence. If necessary, add a question word before the auxiliary verb. For example:

Do you have to stay at work till the evening? Do you have to stay at work until the evening?

How long did you have to wait for her? How long did you have to wait for her?

Modal verb ought to

This modal verb is similar in meaning to the previous one and is synonymous. Modal verb ought to means "should, should". For example:

Girls ought to be more careful in the dark time. Girls should be careful in the dark.

In a negative sentence we add the negative particle not to the verb. For example:

They ought not to miss all the lessons. They shouldn't have missed all their classes.

To construct an interrogative sentence, place the modal verb ought at the beginning of the sentence. For example:

Ought I to follow his instructions? Should I follow his instructions?

Or with a question word:

When I wanted to come to you? When should I come to you?

Modal verb should

This modal verb also has the meaning of must, translated as “should, should”, has a softer and more polite meaning than must. Modal verb should is a past tense verb. For example:

I should stay with him when he is ill. I have to stay with him while he's sick.

You should be more carefully with your health. You should take more care of your health.

It rains every day, you should have an umbrella. It rains every day, you should carry an umbrella with you.

The negative form of the verb is formed using the negative particle not - should not, the shortened form - shouldn't. For example:

You shouldn't spend so much time with this men. You shouldn't spend so much time with this man.

The low shouldn't allow bad people to do what they want. The law should not allow scoundrels to do what they want.

Interrogative sentences with the modal verb should are formed by rearranging the members of the sentence. The modal verb comes first. For example:

Should I close the door? Should I close the door?

Should these young people behave not so noisy? Should these young people be less loud?

Possible options with a question word:

Who should take care about your dog when you are on holydays? Who should take care of your dog while you're on vacation?

W here should I put these boxes? Where should I put these boxes?

Modal verb need

This verb is one of the most frequently used in English speech. The modal verb need is translated "to need". We use it in various situations. For example:

I need to see my doctor as soon as possible. I need to see my doctor as soon as possible.

Kate needs your help, call her just now! Kate needs your help, call her now!

The negative form of this verb can be formed in two ways. By adding a negative particle not to the modal verb - need not, in the abbreviated form needn"t, or, by adding an auxiliary verb do/does/did and negative particle not - don"t need, doesn"t need, didn"t need. The meaning of the negative form is "no need", that is, there is no need, but if you want, you can do it. For example:

You needn't read all these books, choose one. You don't need to read all these books, choose one.

I don't need to listen to you anymore, I can make a decision myself. I don't need to listen to you anymore, I can make my own decision.

Use the same principle to form an interrogative sentence: put the auxiliary verb first do/does/did. For example:

Do you need to have some time to prepare? Do you need time to prepare?

Does my sister need to draw pictures? Does my sister need to draw pictures?