Otuk #1 British Online School

OTUK #1 British Online School
https://onlineteachersuk.com
6 types of modal verbs (with examples)
When we say “types” here, we really mean “modalities” – this is where the term ‘modal verb’ comes
from. A modality is a specific way of doing or experiencing something. Some modals are flexible and can
be used to express several different modalities, but others are limited to just one or two situations. Let’s
take a look!
1. Modals of Ability – can, could
The Merriam Webster Learner’s Dictionary says that ability is the power or skill to do something. There
are two ways we can use modals to express ability – in the present and in the past. Quite simply, can is
used to talk about things in present time, and could is when we want to talk about the past. So, we have
present and past ability. Here are some examples of ability modals in use:
Present ability: Paul can play the piano very well.
 Present ability negative: You can’t sing and you can’t dance either!
Past ability: When you were a child, you could read long books.
 Past ability negative: I couldn’t ride a bicycle until I was 5 years old.
What about modals of ability in the future? Well, for this we do not use can or could. Instead, we need to
use the semi-modal able to, and often this is used together with will. For example: 
Future ability: I am learning guitar and soon I will be able to play my favourite songs.
Future ability negative: She does not practise much, so she won’t be able to win her next match.
A common mistake is to use an infinitive after a modal verb. Don’t do it! We must instead only use the
base form of the verb.
I must to go to London tomorrow. 
(Wrong)
I must go to London tomorrow. 
(Right)