In this post, I would like to talk about such an important topic as modal verbs and their use not only in oral speech, but also when writing essays or scientific articles.And this will help us my dog named Asya, who is very interested in this topic!😊 

The first question is what exactly are modal verbs in English??? Let me tell you, modal verbs are verbs in the English language that differ from other verbs in that they are not used independently and do not denote a specific action or state, they reflect its modality, that is, the attitude of the speaker to it.

Modal verbs in English: 

• can — мочь, уметь
• could — мог, умел
• must — должен, нужно, надо
• have to — быть вынужденным, быть должным, приходится, надо
• may — стоит, следует
• might — должен, следует, стоит
• should — мочь, мог бы
• ought to — мочь, мог бы

Rules for using modal verbs: 

1) A modal verb is always used with a semantic verb that is in the initial form (must do, could see).

Example: I can type very fast.

2) Modal verbs have the same form in all persons and numbers. The only exception is have to, which takes the form has after the pronouns he, she, it.

3) Modal verbs always stand in the present tense (even in the context of the future tense), but some of them can take the past form: can-could; may-might, must-had to.

4) In negative and interrogative sentences, modal verbs are not used with auxiliary verbs, except for have to.

Example: I can’t do it, May I use your laptop? What do I have to sign? 

Meanings of modal verbs:

Modal verbs can and could: Can — be able, be able, have the ability/ability to do something. Can is also used when we ask for permission to do something.

Could — could. This is the past form of the modal verb can. You can also use could to politely ask for something.

If you are sure that the event could not have happened in the past, use the form can't have + ending-ed / 3rd form of the verb.

Modal verbs must and have to: Must — must, must do something. Have to — it is necessary, forced to do something. The modal verbs must and have to indicate duty and obligation, but their meanings are different. Must assumes that no one forced you, and you yourself have made commitments and are responsible for them. Have to implies that you have to do something because the circumstances require it.

In a negative sentence, these modal verbs take on a slightly different meaning: mustn't expresses a categorical prohibition, and don't have to-an optional action (you can do or not do).

Modal verbs should and ought to: Should — should. Usually used in tips and recommendations, it is often a gentle way to tell someone what they need to do. Ought to-should. Synonym of should.

Modal verbs may and might: May — maybe, maybe. In interrogative sentences, suggests a more polite form of question or request.