MODALS with MULTIPLE USES
To show that something was probable in the past:
VERY CERTAIN
must (not) have V3
can’t have V3
couldn’t have V3
Jack had a stomachache after dinner.
Sofia was at a movie with me last night.
He must have eaten too much.
You couldn’t have seen her at the mall.
To show that something was possible in the past:
UNCERTAIN
could have V3
may (not) have V3
might (not) have
V3
He could/may/might have missed the bus this morning.
Tanya was supposed to meet me before school.
David is usually here by now.
She may/might not have gotten the message.
PAST
must (not) V1
have to V1
have got to V1
had better (not) V1
should (not) V1
OPINION or ADVICE
PRESENT
should (not) have
V3
Parents have got to monitor the shows their children watch.
The kids have better not spend so much time indoors playing computer games.
I should have listened the advice my parents gave me about having a healhty life.
We should not have ignored the scientists’ warnings about global warming.
THANKS
thechadash
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