Modal Verbs in Everyday English: 50 Phrases

Asking Politely

Can I pay by card here?
Could you repeat that more slowly, please?
May I leave my bag by the door?
Can you give me a hand with this box?
Could you give me a hand with this box?
Sorry, I can't hear you, could you speak up?

What I Can and Cannot Do

I can speak English, but I still mix up tenses.
At school I could speak English much better.
My brother can't swim, so he stays near the shore.
I can drive, but parking in tight spaces scares me.
Two years ago I couldn't drive at all.
Can you ride a bike without holding the handlebars?

Things I Have to Do

I have to get up at six every weekday.
I must call my mum tonight, I promised her.
Do you have to work on Saturdays?
At the hotel we have to show our passports.
I must remember to take the charger this time.
She has to finish the report before Friday.

Not Allowed and Not Necessary

You mustn't park in front of the gate.
You don't have to park here, there is space behind.
Guests mustn't smoke on the balcony.
You don't have to come early, the film starts at eight.
You mustn't be late for this train, it's the last one.
On weekdays we don't have to book a table.

Giving a Friendly Piece of Advice

You should take an umbrella, the sky looks grey.
You have to take an umbrella, it's already raining.
You shouldn't drink coffee so late in the evening.
I think we should leave a bit earlier today.
Should I bring something to the party?
He shouldn't worry so much about one exam.

Maybe Yes, Maybe No

It might rain later, so take your jacket.
It will rain later, the forecast is clear about it.
She might not come, she wasn't feeling well.
We may be late because of the traffic.
We will be late, the road is completely blocked.
I might take the later train and work on the way.

What the Rules Say

In this library you can borrow five books at a time.
In this library you can't eat or drink.
Visitors have to leave their bags at the entrance.
At the pool you can swim from seven in the morning.
At the pool you can't jump from the side.
Do we have to wear a cap in the pool?

Putting It Together

At work I have to wear a uniform.
Today I should wear something warmer.
You mustn't touch the wet paint.
You don't have to call me back tonight.
Can you help me with this suitcase?
Could you help me with this suitcase, please?
We might eat out tonight.
We will eat out tonight, the table is booked.