Modal Verbs

By Rosamund Place | September 7, 2007

The following modal verbs are used to ask for, give and refuse permission:

Can neutral or informal
May more formal
Might in a tentative/unsure way
Could also tentative/unsure (we sometimes need to use allowed to for the past where an actions happened at a specific time)

You can’t leave your car here.

You may ask questions at the end.

Could you pass me the salt?

Might I trouble you for the time?

Match the sentences to the most suitable description

Home

1. [Multiple choice]

You can use my mobile if you like?

Answers for Quiz [1].

1. I know you. (correct)
2. I don’t know you.

2. [Multiple choice]

They weren’t allowing anyone in.

Answers for Quiz [2].

1. They never allow people in.
2. There was a problem so people were stopped from going in. (correct)

3. [Multiple choice]

May I borrow your pen?

Answers for Quiz [3].

1. I don’t know you. (correct)
2. You’re my best friend.

4. [Multiple choice]

We could wear anything in the sixth form.

Answers for Quiz [4].

1. There was a uniform.
2. There wasn’t a uniform (correct)

5. [Multiple choice]

Students may not bring food into the exam room.

Answers for Quiz [5].

1. it’s forbidden (correct)
2. My friend is speaking.

6. [Multiple choice]

You can’t go out to eat, I’ve already cooked!

Answers for Quiz [6].

1. This is not allowed on Mondays.
2. My Mother is annoyed. (correct)

7. [Multiple choice]

I’m afraid you can’t see him today.

Answers for Quiz [7].

1. He’s too busy. (correct)
2. I don’t want you to.

8. [Multiple choice]

Might I request we arrange another meeting in a month’s time.

Answers for Quiz [8].

1. You are speaking to your sister.
2. You are speaking to the board of directors. (correct)

9. [Multiple choice]

Could you let me know as soon as he arrives?

Answers for Quiz [9].

1. at the office (correct)
2. at home

10. [Multiple choice]

You are allowed one piece of hand-luggage.

Answers for Quiz [10].

1. This is special.
2. This is the regulation. (correct)