I should vs. Should I go?
How many modal verbs are there in English?
English has 9 modal verbs: can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, would.
As we mentioned above, there are also some semi-modals that can be used to express the same thing as
modal verbs. Common examples are: have to, need to, able to and ought to.
There are many different ways of using the 9 modal verbs in English. In this guide, we will show you
how to use them to express your ideas and opinions.
Why do we use modal verbs?
We can use modal verbs for a variety of purposes. We have summarised their main uses for you below.
You can make your speech and writing more polite by using modal verbs.
If you want to send a letter, we can draft it for you. (more direct)
If you would like to send a letter, we will be happy to draft it for you. (more polite)
You can give your opinion on the likelihood of something happening.
It will / may / might / should / could rain this afternoon. (degrees of likelihood)
You can show how certain you are about something that has happened.
It was John’s mistake that lost us the contract. (fact)
It could / might / must / can’t have been John’s mistake. (levels of certainty)
You can sound more polite when making offers or requests.
I want to open the window. (not asking permission)
Can / May / Shall I open the window? (asking if it is alright to do it)
Could / would you open the window, please? (asking somebody to do it)
With modal verbs, you can express more complex ideas.
I might / may / should / will / should have got that job. (degrees of certainty)
I might / could / must / should / will / may go to see the film tomorrow. (different
possibilities)
My family could / might / may / should be coming to see me at the weekend. (some doubt)
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