Daily Grammar- Modals

What are Modals? Can, Could, May, Might, Shall, Should, Will, Would, Must, Ought to, Used to are called Modals. Need and Dare are also called Modals or Modal Auxiliaries.

   At first, I would like to give some examples of, 'Use of Can.'

Point#1- To express ability which may be physical, mental or circumstantial.

For example: I can do this job.
                     I can speak French.
                     They can face any trouble.
                     He can solve this problem within five minutes.

* Remember , using 'Can' in a present tense form refers to- am/is/are + able to; for example:

She can win this race = She is able to win this race.
I can solve this problem = I'm able to solve this problem.
We can swim the English Channel = We are able to swim the English Channel.

Point#2- In the future form 'Can' is used in the form of- Shall/Will + be + able to; for example-

He can do it tomorrow = He will be able to do it tomorrow.
She can get a job next year =  She will be able to get a job next year.

Point#3- In the form of, 'Know how to.'

For examples- She can speak English = She knows how to speak English.
                        He can deal with the forthcoming clients =  He knows how to deal with the forthcoming clients.

Point#4-  In the form of, 'have the right to'.

For example- You cannot enter the film studio = You don't have the right to enter the film studio.
                      You cannot change the schedule = You don't have the right to change the schedule. 

Point#5- To express possibilities; for example:
             
               This news can be true./ This news cannot be true.
                She can make mistakes./ She cannot make mistakes.
               Rita can be suitable for this post./ Rita cannot be suitable for this post.

Point#6-  To express permission.

For example- You can stay here. = I allow you to stay here.
                      Can I use your pencil? = Am I permitted to use your pencil?
                      Can I sit beside you? = Am I allowed to sit beside you?
                      You can go now. = You are permitted to go now.

Point#7- To express offer/Request.

For example- Can I bring you a chair to sit in?  (Offer)
                      Can I carry your bag?  (Request)

Point#8- To express Phrasal Use of Can;
 For example- I cannot help laughing.
                      She cannot help talking.

Point#9- To express habit or nature;

For example- A pick pocket can spare none.
                     A fraudster can deceive anyone.

Point#10- To express purpose;

For example- I read this post so that I can learn use of  'Can' correctly.
                     Parents work hard so that their children can become good citizens.

* I hope after reading this post, you will be able to use 'Can' correctly!