Do you know what modal verbs are?

We have prepared this lesson for you to understand their meaning and how to use them.

✅ Can (informal)

Use: To ask someone to do something, to ask for or give permission and to offer to do something.

Examples:

- Can you help me?

- Can I have your number?

- Can I give you a hand?

✅ Could (more polite)

Use: To ask someone to do something and to ask for permission.

Examples:

- Could you water the flowers for me?

- Do you think I could borrow your DVD player?

✅ May (very polite)

Use: To ask for or give permission.

Examples:

- May I speak to you for a minute?

✅ Should

Use:  to give advice and to talk about something that is a good idea.

Examples:

- You should buy a helmet if you want to ride a motorcycle. (I think it’s a good idea.)

- That cat should get some exercise.

Let’s practice!

Complete the following sentences with the correct option below and write the answers in the comments.

1) (Could / May) you open the window a bit, please?

2) You (may / could) leave now if you wish.

3) I’m sorry, I (can’t / may not) help you move this weekend. 

4) You (shouldn’t / may not)  run with scissors.

(I think it’s a bad idea.)

5) (Could/ May) I use your bathroom?

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