Modals are special verbs that alter the meaning of other verbs in the sentence. Modal verbs are always used with other verbs.
Some examples of modal verbs are:
- could
- should
- would
- might
- may
- can
- must
- have got to
It is important to know the different uses of modal verbs. They help us express meaning more clearly.
Modals of Advice
We can use modal verbs to give advice. We choose different modals depending on how strong our opinion or attitude is.
For example, imagine your friend says to you:
- My cell phone is broken. I think I need to buy a new one.
Your advice might be:
weaker  stronger |
could might |
You could try to get it fixed. You might be able to get it fixed. |
| should shouldn't |
You should try to fix it before you spend the money on a new one. You shouldn't buy a new phone. You can't afford it and you don't really need it! |
|
| had better had better not have to have got to |
You'd better ask your dad for a loan to buy a new one. You'd better not get the same phone again. It clearly sucks! You have to be more careful with your new phone this time! You've got to be more cautious and not drop your phone so often! |
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