Post on 12-Apr-2017
MODALSAlejandro Ferry
Modals■Modals are verbs that are used in
conjunction with other verbs (Example: MUST GO). These verbs help speakers and writers express their attitude to what they speak o write about. Modal verbs are used to express responsibility, obligation, probability, etc.
Modals expressing ABILITY
MODALCAN
CANNOTBE + ABLE TO
See
See
See
CANHas the ability or capabilityFuture/Present Tense• I can juggle three balls.Past• I could juggle three balls when I was workingas an entertainer.
Back
CANNOT
Back
Lack of ability or capabilityFuture/Present Tense• I cannot juggle three balls.Past• I could’nt juggle three balls when I was workingas an entertainer.
Be + able to
Back
Has the ability or capabilityFuture/Present Tense• I am able to swim.Past• I was able to swim that time because he helpedme.
COU
LD Expresses general ability in the past (or lack of ability if used with NOT) When I was
young, I could sing very high pitched songs
WAS/WERE ABLE TO + VERBManaged to do in a very specific
occasion in the past. (MANAGED TO)Example:I was able to answer all questions in the exam.
COULD IS ALSO USED FOR SENSE IN THE PAST
SEE, HEAR, SMELL, TASTE, FEEL, REMEMBER and
UNDERSTAND