Learning English is impossible without delving into the topic of modal verbs, which are used in constructing complex and simple sentences. In the article we will tell you what a modal verb is, how to use it correctly in various vocabulary constructions, and form declarative and interrogative phrases..

English modal verbs

Modal Verbs- a separate part of the English language that works according to its own rules, different from the correct ones and not regular verbs. To avoid confusing English modal verbs with anything else, they should be memorized. Teachers introduce students to a table that tells about the rules of application and the role in the sentence.

If we talk about the differences between regular and irregular verbs, they differ in the principle of formation of the past tense. the peculiarity of regular forms in the formation of their characteristic -ed endings. Incorrect ones completely change their structure: ending, root, prefix.

Verbs are also classified into main and auxiliary. The main ones perform an important lexical role and talk about a certain action. Easily and organically translated into Russian. Auxiliaries complement them and are responsible for grammatical functions. They have no analogues in Russian.

All modal verbs in English can be compared with an auxiliary, they have a complementary function, but more significant. According to the rules, modal verbs express the relationship of the subject in the action inherent in the sentence or phrase.

Types of modal verbs

The main feature of modal verbs in English is the conveyance of the attitude of the main character to what is happening. There are 5 modal verbs that should be memorized:

• may/might
• will / would
• shall/should
• can/could
• must

There are also additional verbs that can also be classified as modal, but they partially have their properties. These are the formsdare, ought to, need and others. Now about the formats in which modal verbs are used. Characteristics of expressions:

• confidence, affirmation
• request, suggestion
• advice, expression of opinion
• formal request
• obligation

Forms of modal verbs are actively used in live speech. Therefore, if you want to achieve a level of fluency in English, pay special attention to this topic.

Forming verbs in different types of sentences

There are no clearly defined rules when it comes to changing the structure of verbs. Only some modal forms are subject to declension. So, for example, can is used in constructions of the present and past tenses; it is not applicable for the future. The same situation with the verb may is used in all tenses except Future. But this does not mean that forms are not suitable for expressing thoughts in the future tense. To express thoughts in the sentence structure, will is added.

If we talk about the arrangement of modal verbs in a sentence, there are a number of rules that need to be followed in constructing phrases. In statement expressions, modal verbs are used before the verb responsible for a specific action and after the main noun. When negated, the particle not must be added to the verb (exception - have to). In an interrogative sentence, a change of positions is required - the modal verb, contrary to the rules of placement in affirmative constructions, comes before the noun, replacing the auxiliary verb.

Rules for using modal verbs

To freely express your thoughts, to color emotionally speech construction, you should remember the most commonly used modal verbs, which will help you correctly compose affirmative, interrogative, and incentive sentences, express a request or wish. We take note: must, can, may, ought to, need, should, to be able to, have to, manage to.

Now about the rules for using modal forms. Remember three main ones:

1. The particle to is not used after modal verbs, except for the forms ought to, need to, have to.
2. Modal verbs do not have endings attached to them (the exception word is manage to).
3. A verb denoting action, in combination with a modal, takes on the form of an infinitive.

Examples:

You should look for another way out. -You ought to find another way.

I have to go, it's late. -I need to go, it's late.

Students must follow university rules.Students must follow university rules.

You must complete this task by tomorrow evening. -You have to do this task till tomorrow evening.

Using the modal verb can/could

Translated into Russian, this verb means “I can, I can,” and can convey the meaning of a certain skill. Can is used in the present tense, could - in the past. To construct a sentence in the future tense, the form will be able to is used.

Examples:

Two years ago I saw much better. -I could see much better two years ago.

I can draw very well because I had a good teacher. -I can draw very well, because I had very good teacher.

Explain the problem, we can help you. -We will be able to help you, explain the problem.

When constructing a negative sentence, the particle not is added to the modal verb:

The students could not prepare for this competition. -Students couldn`t be ready for this competition.

I can't find my keys in this mess. -I can't find my keys in this mess.

If you want to correctly construct a question with a modal verb, just swap the words. The subject is shifted to the background, and the modal verb itself comes to the fore.

Modal verb must

Students of our school must follow the Charter. -Pupils of our school must follow the Regulation.

The opposite meaning takes on the form must not:

Your family shouldn't move to another city. -Your family must not move in another town.

In interrogative phrases, must becomes the beginning of a sentence:

Should tigers be kept in cages? -Must the tigers be kept in the cages?

The command tone is lost with the appearance of the particle be:

It must be noisy living in the center of a big city. -It must be noisy to live in the center of the big city.

Modal verb should

Examples:

You should stay with him while he is sick. -You should stay with him while he"s sick.

To express negation, a combination with the particle not is used:

You shouldn't spend a lot of time on the computer. -You shouldn't spend a lot of time at the computer.

The same rules apply to the construction of interrogative sentences. Modal verbs come to the fore:

Should we take a vacation in May? -Should we take a vacation in may?

Should this driver slow down? - Should this driver slow down?

Modal verb may/might

These verbs express uncertainty and are translated as “may, may.” In the present tense we use may, in the past tense we use might.

Examples:

He might have had lunch. -He might be having lunch.

This may be true. -It may be true.

I can be the best student in college. -I may be one of the best students in this college.

To introduce negation into a construction, the particle not is traditionally used:

This can't be true! -It may not be truth!

We form an interrogative sentence according to the standard rule: we start with a modal verb:

Can I sit on the chair? -May I sit on a chair?

Modal verbs to be able to/manage to

The form is used in the sense of “to be able, to be able.” The difference from could is that it is situational and is used in certain cases:

The water came in very quickly, but everyone managed to get into the boat. -The water came very fast, but all managed to get in the boat.

We lost the puppy, but then we were able to find him. -We lost the puppy, but then we could find him.

IN interrogative sentences:

Can my baby put on his shoes without your help? - Kid was able to put on shoes without your help?

In negative constructions:

I was unable to complete this work on time. -I didn't manage to do this work on time.

Modal verb need

Directly translated into Russian, this verb means “to need.” It is considered one of the most common in the English language. Here are examples that are often found in real life:

I need to meet you tonight. -I need to get up with you tonight.

Mom needs help, put things aside and pay attention to her. -Mom needs help, put things down, and pay attention to her.

When using negative forms, you are faced with a choice: the particle not, which is familiar to modal verbs, or the auxiliarydo/does/did. Examples:

You don't need to spend extra money on gifts. -You do not need to spend extra money on gifts.

You do not need to write letters to this address. -You needn`t write letters to this address

When structuring a question phrase, the above auxiliary verbs come first:

Do you need time to get ready for a walk? -Do you need time to get ready for a walk?

Practice using modal verbs in practice. Teachers recommend communicating more with native speakers. If this is not possible, find someone to talk to on Skype.

Everyone knows that a verb denotes an action. But this is not always the case. There are several special verbs in English that do not denote action, but are used in combination with other verbs to denote an attitude towards an action. These verbs are called modal.

Action attitude is when you can/can't or should/shouldn't do something. Modal verbs are used to express an attitude towards an action. A table of basic modal verbs is given below. The table contains 11 modal verbs of the English language with translation, examples and detailed explanation basic meanings! Can, must, may, etc. The table will help you quickly navigate when translating sentences containing modal verbs into English.

Verb	Translation	When is it used?
		Talks about the ability (mental or physical) to perform some action. I can swim good. I can swim well.
	must	Talks about the need to do something due to external circumstances. I have to do my homework. I have to do my homework. Read in detail:
must	must	Talks about the need to do something due to an internal need/sense of duty. I must help my brother. I have to help my brother. Read in detail:
		Used in the following cases: 1) When we talk about the probability of an action: It may rain. It will probably rain. 2) When we give permission to do something: You might go home. You can go home.
should	should	To give advice about the wisdom/correctness of some action. You should clean your house. You must clean your house.
ought to		To give advice to do something or to remind one of a moral duty or obligation to do something. You ought to read quietly. You should read more quietly.
need	[no need [not] necessary	It is used mainly with the particle not (in negative sentences), when it is necessary to say that some action can be done, but is not necessary. That is, there is a possibility, but there is no need. You need not go home, but you can do it if you want. You don't have to open the window, but you can open it if you want.
	no clear translation	Expresses confidence and determination that the action will be completed: I will win this game. I will win this game. An insistent demand on another person with a hint of confidence that the demand will be fulfilled: You will give me what I want. You will give me what I want. Questions are a polite request to do something: Will you give me some money? In negative sentences - a firm intention not to perform the specified action: This pencil will not write. This pencil doesn't write at all.
shall	no clear translation	When we ask a question, the purpose of which is to receive further instructions: Shall I go home? Can I go home? With second and third person, can be used to make a command, promise or threat: You shall regret if you say this. You'll regret it if you say this. Obligation to perform an action (in contracts and other official documents): The employer shall provide the foreign worker with housing. The employer is obliged to provide the foreign worker with housing.

How to build sentences with modal verbs?

Modal verbs behave differently from regular verbs. In order to construct a sentence with a modal verb grammatically correctly, you need to know and follow a number of rules.

1) Modal verbs are not used by themselves. Any sentence with a modal verb must also contain a second - semantic verb. Please note the following points:

• The semantic verb is placed immediately after the modal verb.
• The particle to is not placed between the modal and semantic verbs. Exceptions to this rule are the modal verbs ought to, be to, have to.
• The semantic verb always comes in an indefinite form.

2) Modal verbs do not change for persons. The ending –s in the third person is not added to them. Exception - have to.

Correct writing:

She can play the piano.
She can play the piano.

It is incorrect to write:

She can play the piano.

3) Interrogative and negative sentences with modal verbs are formed without the auxiliary verb do. In interrogative sentences, the modal verb is placed immediately before the subject. The exception again is have to.

Examples of interrogative sentences with translation:

Can I help you?
Can I help you?
Will you give me some money?
Could you give me some money?

Examples of negative sentences with translation:

I can't go faster.
I can't go faster.

I don't have to do it.
I shouldn't do this.

4) Combinations of modal verbs with the particle not have a shortened form. Look at some examples of shortened forms of English modal verbs in the table below:

The general rule is this - instead of a particle not an ending is added to the modal verb n't. But there are 3 exceptions to this rule. They are shown in the following table.

INTRODUCTION

Section 1. Modality

1.1 Concept of modality

Section 2. General characteristics of modal verbs

2.1 Verb must

2.2Verb may – might

2.3Verbs should and ought

2.4Verb will – would

2.5 Verb can – could

2.6 Verb need

Section 3. Modals

3.1 Lexical composition and classification of modal words

3.2 Modals as a means of expressing certainty

CONCLUSION

LIST OF REFERENCES USED

Introduction

Subject My abstract is "Means of expressing modality in the English language."

Subject of research are modal words in modern English as the main lexical means of expressing modality.

Relevance The research topic is determined by the need for a comprehensive theoretical consideration of the category of modality, the means of its expression, the systematization of modal words, and the determination of their status.

In linguistic science, modal words and phrases are considered one of the most controversial lexical and grammatical categories of words and have attracted the attention of scientists since the second half of the 20th century. However, modal words have not yet received a complete explanation due to their versatility, specificity of linguistic expression and functional features.

Thus, the insufficient scientific systematization of the category of modality and the means of its expression in the English language determined the choice of the topic of this essay.

Purpose of the study is to identify the essence, to describe and comprehensively analyze modal words as a special part of speech in the English language, as well as to consider modal verbs as one of the ways to implement modality.

In accordance with the purpose of the work, the following are set: tasks:

1) determine the essence, specificity and main features of the modality category;

2) characterize the main modal verbs;

3) describe modal words as means of expressing certainty;

4) characterize modal words in terms of their lexical composition;

5) identify the syntactic functions of modal words;

The following were used in writing the abstract: methods: comparative, descriptive, statistical.

Theoretical and methodological The basis of the work was the research works of both Russian and foreign linguists on grammar, logic, syntax and general issues of language.

Practical significance The work is determined by the possibility of considering the results of the study as a fragmentary part of a comprehensive study of the functional-semantic category of modality and the means of linguistic representation that make up its components. This largely determines the scope of practical application of my course work, the materials of which can be used in a modern English course, in special courses on modality problems, as well as in the compilation of explanatory and bilingual dictionaries.

Work structure. The work consists of an introduction, three sections, a conclusion and a list of references.

Section 1. Modality

1.1 Concept of modality

Linguistics has come a long and winding path in the study of modality, based on the achievements of logic, semiotics and psychology. However, modality has not yet received a complete explanation due to its versatility, specificity of linguistic expression and functional features. Researchers give different definitions of the category “modality”. Let's look at some concepts.

In 1960, in the grammar of the Russian language, all linguistic facts relating to all phrases, introductory words, and inserted constructions were formulated and systematized, but there was no definition of modality yet. The first definition of modality was found in 1969 in the linguistic dictionary of O.S. Akhmanova, who considers modality as a conceptual category with the meaning of the speaker’s attitude to the content of the utterance and the relationship of the content of the utterance to reality (the relationship of the communicated to its real implementation), expressed by various lexical and grammatical means, such as form and mood, modal verbs, etc. Modality can have the meaning of statement, command, wish, assumption, reliability, unreality, etc. The Dictionary of Linguistic Terms (1969) also provides a division of modality by type:

· hypothetical (suppositional) modality, which involves presenting the content of a statement as hypothetical;

Verbal modality. Modality expressed by a verb;

· unreal modality (unrealmodality) presentation of the content of a statement as impossible, unfeasible;

· negative modality – presentation of the content of a statement as inconsistent with reality.

Russian grammar of 1980 notes that, firstly, modality is expressed by multi-level means of language, secondly, it is indicated that the category of objective modality correlates with the category of predicativity, thirdly, a circle of phenomena related to the phenomena of modality is outlined:

1. the meaning of reality - unreality: reality is indicated by a syntactic indicative (present, past, future tense); unreality - unreal moods (subjunctive, conditional, desirable, incentive);

2. subjective-modal meaning – the speaker’s attitude to what is being communicated;

3. the sphere of modality includes words (verbs, short adjectives, predicates), which with their lexical meanings express possibility, desire, obligation;

The Russian Dictionary of Foreign Words (1996) gives the following definition: modality - (French Modalite, lat. Modus mood) - the modality of a judgment - the difference between logical judgments depending on the nature of the reliability they establish - on whether they express a necessary or only a probable connection between the logical subject and the predicate. According to modality, judgments are distinguished: apodictic, assertoric and problematic.

Let's move on to consider the definition given in the explanatory dictionary of Ushakov D.N. (1996): modality - (English modality) a conceptual category with the meaning of the speaker’s attitude to the content of the statement and the relationship of the content of the statement to reality (the relationship of what is being communicated to its actual implementation), expressed by various grammatical and lexical means, such as mood forms, modal verbs, intonation, etc.

Linguist V.V. Vinogradov in his work “Russian Language” gave a broader definition of modality. It follows from it that “modality is not only a characteristic of reality and unreality, but also the attitude of the speaker to what is being expressed.” From the definition it is clear that there are two types of modality: objective and subjective, but in the text it is difficult to distinguish a clear boundary between them. Many researchers believe that modality in a text is subjective.

As already noted by G.F. Musaeva, the category of modality is differentiated into two types: objective and subjective. Objective modality is a mandatory feature of any utterance, one of the categories that form the predicative unit - a sentence. This type modality expresses the relationship of what is being communicated to reality in terms of reality (realization or feasibility). Objective modality is organically connected with the category of time and is differentiated on the basis of temporal certainty - uncertainty. The meaning of time and reality - unreality - are fused together; the complex of these meanings is called objective-modal meanings. Subjective modality is the attitude of the speaker to what is being communicated. Unlike objective modality, it is an optional feature of an utterance. The semantic scope of subjective modality is much wider than the semantic scope of objective modality. The semantic basis of subjective modality is formed by the concept of evaluation in the broad sense of the word, including not only the logical (intellectual, rational) qualification of what is being communicated, but also different types emotional (irrational) reaction. Evaluative - characterizing meanings include meanings that combine the expression of a subjective attitude towards the communicated with such a characteristic of it that can be considered non-subjective, arising from the fact, event itself, from its qualities, properties, from the nature of its passage in time or from its connections and relationships with other facts and events.

The scope of modality includes:

· contrasting statements according to the nature of their communicative attitude;

· gradations of values ​​in the range “reality - unreality”;

· different degrees of confidence of the speaker in the reliability of his thoughts about reality;

· various modifications of the connection between subject and predicate.

It is important to note that modality is realized either at the grammatical, or at the lexical, or at the intonation level, or in sections of the utterance as a whole and has different ways of expression; it is expressed by various grammatical and lexical means: special forms of moods; modal verbs (for example, Russian: maybe, should; English: must, can); other modal words (for example, Russian: it seems, perhaps; English: perhaps, likely); intonation means. Different languages ​​express different meanings of modality grammatically differently. Thus, the English language expresses the meaning of unreal modality using the special mood Subjunctive II, for example: If you had come in time, we should have been able to catch the train.

V.V. Vinogradov in his work “Studies on Russian Grammar” adhered to the concept that a sentence, reflecting reality in its practical social awareness, expresses a relationship (attitude) to reality, therefore the category of modality is closely connected with the sentence, with the variety of its types. Each sentence includes, as an essential constructive feature, a modal meaning, that is, it contains an indication of the relationship to reality. He believed that the category of modality belongs to the number of basic, central linguistic categories, found in different forms in the languages ​​of different systems. V.V. Vinogradov also noted that the content of the category of modality and the forms of its detection are historically variable. The semantic category of modality in languages ​​of different systems has a mixed lexical and grammatical character. In the languages ​​of the European system, it covers the entire fabric of speech.

Modal verbs and their equivalents - Modal verbs in English and their equivalents

Abstract to the material: Unfortunately, the topic of modal verbs and their equivalents in English is often poorly covered, especially in school textbooks. The maximum that an interested reader can find in them is only “superficial” information, which in a real linguistic situation with a native English speaker can only aggravate the situation. As a result, one’s own experience, often negative, becomes the teacher and the actual means of revealing this topic. Purpose of this material is to correct the current situation.

The first and main concept in this topic is the concept of modality in linguistics: modality- expression of the speaker’s attitude to the content of his utterance.
Modal verbs express an attitude towards an action (its necessity, probability, possibility of its completion, etc.).

Features of modal verbs in English

1. They do not change by person, do not have the ending -s/-es in the third person, singular(except for the equivalents of modal verbs: to have (to), to be (to), to be obliged (to)).
She can swim; he must be tired; it might rain later.
She has to wake up early; we are to read "War and Peace"; I am obliged to you for your recent help.
2. Auxiliary verbs are not added to them when constructing interrogative and negative sentences. In such sentences, the modal verb itself plays the role of an auxiliary verb: in questions it takes place before the subject, and in negations the particle not is added to it (exceptions: to have (to) is used in questions and negations with an auxiliary verb; in to be (to) and to be obliged (to) be in questions is used before the subject in the appropriate person and number (am/are/is) and adds the particle not in questions).
Shall do we go for a walk? Can I help you? What should I do?
He can"t dance; you mustn't steal; you shouldn't lie.
Does he have to know I"ve never been kissed? Are we to meet inside? Is he obliged to attend the audition?
She doesn't have to drink coffee; I am not to work today; I am not obliged to pay for this.
3. Not all modal verbs have forms of future and past tenses, and when they are expressed, they are replaced by equivalents. It is more correct to consider aspectual forms of modal verbs as separate modal verbs, and not as forms of one due to their significant difference in use; in some cases this also applies to negative forms. All explanations and examples for this paragraph are further in the material.
4. They don’t have indeterminate form verb (infinitive) as well as -ing forms. In such cases, the equivalents are used:
I"d love to be able to ski; I hate having to get up on cold mornings.
5. After them, the particle to of the semantic verb is not used (except for equivalents). The exception is modal verb ought to.
You must go; I"ll help you; you have to visit him; you ought to see a doctor.
6. Can be used with a perfect infinitive to describe actions that happened in the past:
You should have told me that you can"t swim: you might have drowned!
7. Each modal verb has at least two meanings:
A. Expresses probability or possibility
b. Expresses an opinion, judgment, attitude.

Modal verbs can be divided into two categories:

1. Directly modal verbs and their equivalents. These are verbs that are only modal, as well as their equivalents, which are used in tenses in which the modal verbs themselves are not used.
2. Multifunctional verbs that perform the function of modals. This category includes verbs that can perform various functions, including the function of modal verbs.

Table of modal verbs in English

Modal verb and its equivalent	Meaning	Present	Past	Future
Direct modal verbs and their equivalents
can to be able (to)		can am/are/is able (to)	could was/were able (to)	--- will be able (to)
may to be allowed (to)		may am/are/is allowed (to)	might was/were allowed (to)	--- will be allowed (to)
must		must	---	---
ought (to)		ought (to)	---	---
Equivalents of must verbs (must, ought, shall, should)
to have (to) to have got(to) (British colloquial)		have/has (got) (to)	had (got) (to)	will have (got) (to)
to be (to)		am/are/is (to)	was/were (to)	---
to be obliged (to)		am/are/is obliged (to)	was/were obliged (to)	will be obliged (to)
Multifunctional verbs that perform the function of modals
shall		---	---	shall
should		should	---	---
will		---	---	will
would		---	would	---
need		need	---	---
dare		dare	dared	---

Abbreviations: can not = can"t = cannot, could not= couldn"t, may not = mayn"t, might not = mightn"t, must not = mustn"t, shall not = shan"t, should not = shouldn't "t, will = "ll, will not = won"t, would = "d, would not = wouldn"t, need not = needn"t, dare not = daren"t ().

Expression of obligation

The modal verb must, the equivalents to have (to), to be obliged (to), to be (to), as well as the multifunctional verb will express the strong form of obligation.

Must is personal a verb of obligation and expresses personal desire or even demand of the speaker. This modal verb must be used very carefully:
You must come up to the reception in order to join a library. You must go to the reception desk to sign up for the library (meaning I want, require, actually order you to go to the reception desk, not just say it). The reaction of people who hear such “advice” will be quite obvious.
But we can say:
I must get my hair cut. I have to cut my hair (I want it so bad).
In addition, must is used in official and written speech, often in impersonal sentences:
Books must be returned on or before the due date. Books must be returned no later than the specified deadline (library rule).

To have (to) expresses an obligation based on any rules or laws, on the authority of another person or on circumstances.
I can't play tennis tomorrow. I have to go to the dentist. I won't be able to play tennis tomorrow. I need to go to the dentist (I have an appointment).
Children have to go to school until they are sixteen. Children under sixteen years of age must go to school (law).
Mum says you have to tidy your room before you go out. Mom says you should clean your room before you leave. This sentence reflects the mother’s order and not the speaker’s order; On behalf of the mother, this requirement looks like this:
You must tidy your room before you go out. You must clean your room before leaving (I want it so much, I order you to do it).
Compare:
Mum says you must tidy your room before you go out. In fact, this sentence means: "Mom says that I (speaking) I demand that you clean your room before you leave." Must is a personal modal verb; when someone's personal speech is conveyed in an indirect form, it is replaced by to have (to)/to have got (to).
A few examples to compare must and to have (to)/to have got (to) :
I must stop smoking. I have to quit smoking (I want to).
I "ve got to stop smoking. I must quit smoking (doctor's orders).
Questions with must are possible, but very rare. To have (to) is used much more often:
Must you buy these shabby jeans? Do you really need to buy these distressed jeans? (Is this what you want?)
Do you have to wear a tie at work? Should you wear a tie to work? (Do you have such a rule?)

The negative forms must not and do not have (to) are significantly different. Mustn't used to express prohibitions; don't have (to) denotes the absence of obligation (any action can be performed if you want, but this is not obligatory).
You must not leave bicycles in front of the portal. It is prohibited to leave bicycles in front of the main entrance.
Passengers must not speak to the driver! Passengers are prohibited from talking to the driver!
You mustn't steal other people's things. It's wrong! You can't steal other people's things! It's illegal!
Some people iron their socks, but you don"t have to. I think it"s a waste of time. Some people iron their socks, but you don't have to. I think it's a waste of time.
When you go into a shop, you don't have to buy something. You can just look. When you come to a store, you don't have to buy something. You can just look.

To be obliged (to) is also the equivalent of the modal verb must, but is used much less frequently than to have (to). The difference is that to be obliged (to) is a little more formal and expresses an obligation related to social, legal and moral aspects:
"The Constitution does not oblige government to avoid any public acknowledgment of religion's role in society," Anthony Kennedy said in his opinion.
I am obliged to you for your gracious hospitality. I thank you for your hospitality.

Equivalent to be (to) expresses an obligation due to some agreement, in accordance with a plan or schedule.
The train is to arrive. Why is it still at the station? The train must depart (according to the schedule). Why is he still at the station?

Should And ought (to) express weak obligation or advice. Both modal verbs express what the speaker thinks is true.
You"re always asking me for money. I think you should spend less. You constantly ask me for money. I think you should spend less.
You ought to be more careful with your money. You need to be more careful with your money.
You shouldn't sit so close to the TV! It's bad for your eyes. You shouldn't sit so close to the TV! It's harmful to the eyes.
There is practically no difference in the use of should and ought (to), but sometimes the latter expresses a moral duty:
You ought to visit your grandmother. You should visit your grandmother.
or regret:
You ought to help me! You must help me! (But you don't help.)

Multifunctional verb will as a modal verb in the 2nd and 3rd person singular. and many more numbers express an order, obligation or recommendation. The use of this verb is often resorted to in military institutions and schools.
You will do as you"ve been told.
The crew will come forward at midnight! The crew must depart at midnight!

Expression of permission, permission

Can, could, may, might, to be allowed (to) are used to express permission and permission.

Can used to ask and state permission, while can"t to deny this permission.
- Can I ask you a question? Can I ask you a question?
- Yes, of course you can. Of course you can.
I"m sorry, you can"t come in here. Unfortunately, you can't come here.

Modal verb could used as a more polite form.
Could you do me a favor? Could you do me a favor?

Modal verb of permission may more formal and used much less frequently than can:
May I come in, sir? May I come in, sir?
Can and could (but not may) are used to talk about what is usually allowed.
Can you park in this street in Sundays? Is it possible to park on this street on Sundays?

Equivalent to be allowed (to) replaces may in the past and future tenses, is used as an infinitive and participle and has no significant difference in meaning with the modal verb may.
You"ll be allowed to go out. You will be allowed/allowed to go out.

Past form may - might used in the meaning of permission/permission is used only in the subordinate part of a sentence (mainly in indirect speech), when the verb of the main part is in the past tense, in other cases the equivalent to be allowed (to) is used.
Austin said you might take his diary. Austin said you could take his diary.
I was allowed to take the diary. I was allowed to take the diary.

Expression of ability, possibility

The ability or possibility of performing any action is expressed using the modal verb can, its equivalent to be able (to) and the expression managed (to).

To be able (to) means the same as can, but can is used much more often. To be able (to) more formal.
Can you come to a meeting next week? Can you come to the meeting next week?
Please inform us if you are able to attend a meeting next week. Please let us know if you are able to attend next week's meeting.
To be able to have temporary ones? e forms that the modal verb can does not have:
I"d love to be able to fly. I would really like to be able to fly.
I like being able to jollify if I want. I find it nice to be able to have fun whenever I want.
I"ve never been able to cook. I never knew how to cook.
She"ll be able to see you tomorrow. She will be able to meet you tomorrow.

To express ability/possibility in general, a modal verb is used in the past tense could.
I could swim when I was four. I knew how to swim when I was four years old.
And to express a one-time action in a certain situation in the past, it is used to be able (to) or expression managed (to).
The woman was drowing, but a lifeguard managed to swim to her and pull her out of the water. That woman was drowning, but a rescuer was able to swim to her and pull her out of the water.
The prisoners were able to escape by bribing the guards. The prisoners were able to escape by bribing the guards.
The exception to this rule are verbs of feeling and perception. The modal verb could is used with such verbs.
When we came into the building, I could smell something burning. When we entered the building I smelled something burning.
We could remember where I lost my passport. I was able to remember where I lost my passport.

Couldn't used to express the inability/impossibility of performing an action in the past.
My mother couldn't swim until she was 47. My mother couldn't swim until she was 47.
I couldn't find my wallet anywhere. I couldn't find my wallet anywhere.

Note: Can and can't can be used to express a future action if the speaker decides at the moment of conversation (that is, he knows for sure) that he can or cannot perform it.
I can see you tomorrow morning for half an hour. I can meet you tomorrow morning for half an hour.
Compare:
One day we will be able to live without wars. Someday we will be able to live without warriors.

Shall I/we... ? used as a request for advice, as a proposal or an invitation (in Russian it is often translated as an affirmative rather than an interrogative sentence).
Shall I carry your bag? Let me carry your bag.
What shall I do? What should I do? (Advise me.)
Shall we dance? Let's dance.
Shall we go to the seaside or the mountains? Shall we go to the coast or to the mountains? (Advised.)

Expression of confidence, probability

In addition to ought, permission and ability, modal verbs can express degrees of certainty and probability. The following modal verbs are arranged in order of "fading" degree of probability that they express: must, will (would) could, may, might, can't. For greater clarity, the above modal verbs can be assigned an approximate percentage of probability:

Must And can"t are used to express a logical conclusion: must - logically possible and can"t - logically impossible. Both verbs do not mean one hundred percent certainty of the possibility or impossibility of action due to the lack of certain facts, but express a very high degree of it.
Martin must have some problems - he is kind of sullen. Martin must have problems: he's kind of gloomy.
There's the doorbell. It must be Rodger. He always comes home at this time. Someone rings the doorbell. It must be Roger. He always comes home at this time.
Suzie can't have a ten-year-old daughter! She's only twenty-five herself! Susie can't have a ten year old daughter! She herself is only twenty-five!
You can't be serious. I know you are joking. You're not serious. I know you're joking.

Could, may And might usually emphasized in speech.
Dave and Lucy aren't at home. They could be in the theater, I suppose. Dave and Lucy are not at home. I think they can be in the theater (≈80% certainty; Dave and Lucy often go to the theater).
We may go to Greece for our holidays. We haven't decided yet. Perhaps we will spend a vacation in Greece. We haven't decided yet (≈50% certainty).
She may be at home. She may be at home (≈50% certainty).
Ann might be there too. Perhaps Ann is there too (≈20%; low degree of certainty)
According to the radio, it may rain today (≈50%). It might even snow (≈20%). According to the radio it may rain today. Or maybe even snow.

The continuous infinitive is used after the modal verb of probability to express possible activities occurring at the moment.
His light"s on. He must be working late. The light is on. It must be working.
It"s only 8:10. They can"t be having a break yet. It's only ten minutes past eight. They can't have a break.

Design modal verb + perfect infinitive expresses the degree of probability in the past:
They could have moved house. They could have moved.
Robert must have gone out. Robert must have left (he is not at home now).
She passed me in the street without speaking: she can"t have seen me. He passed me without even saying hello: I think she didn’t see me.
I rang Helen but she didn’t reply, so I suppose she may have been in the bath. I called Helen, but she didn’t answer, I think she was in the bathroom.

As already mentioned at the beginning of this material, each modal verb can express probability and judgment. The listed must, could, may, might, can"t more than express all possible ways of indicating probability and are suitable for almost all life situations. But despite this, probability can also be expressed: should, ought (to), will, would and need Cases of their use in this meaning are quite rare, but they still exist.

Should And ought (to) express an assumption based on facts.
They should all be of equal speed. They probably all have the same speed.
It ought not to be very hard to get the village. It probably won't be very difficult to get to this village.

Will And would express an assumption based on the subjective opinion of the speaker.
We heard the phone call. "That would be Charles", I said, knowing I was right. We heard the phone ringing. “It’s probably Charles,” I replied, knowing that I was right.
That will be the postman, I expect. It's probably the postman.

Need used in negative sentences to mean an assumption about the optionality of an action.
It doesn't take you very long. It is unlikely that this will take you much time.

Expression of desire, intention, determination

Desires and intentions are expressed by multifunctional verbs will And would, used with 1st person singular. and many more number in a construction with an imperfect infinitive. Usually shall is used with the first person, and the use of will gives a connotation of determination and desire. In such cases, the modal verb will is not shortened to “ll and is stressed in the sentence; in Russian it is either not translated at all or translated as “want”, “certainly”, etc.
I will do it whether you like it or not. I'll do it anyway, whether you like it or not.
I will answer you as soon as I can. I will definitely answer you as soon as I can.
I will let you know! I'll definitely let you know!
I would tell you, I swear! I would have told you, I swear!
In addition, would is used quite often in constructions:
would rather be preferable
would better
would sooner sooner
I"d rather go for a walk. Perhaps I'll go for a walk.
I"d better pay more at once instead of paying every week. I'd rather pay more immediately than pay every week.
She"d sooner break up with me then apologize to me. She would rather break up with me than ask for forgiveness.

Will and would in negative form used with animate nouns to express refusal and reluctance, and with inanimate nouns they indicate non-functioning, resistance or opposition:
I won't come back here again. I will never come back here again.
She won't go to the cafe. She doesn't want to go to the cafe.
Would in the meaning of negation can be used both for the present and for the past tense:
I wouldn't lend him even a pence.
I invited Eric several times, but he wouldn't come.
The window won't open. The window doesn't open.
The car wouldn't start. The car won't start.
The pen won't write. The pen doesn't write.
Will and would in questions express polite requests, suggestions and invitations. Would is a less formal and more polite verb and is more often associated with a conversational style.
Will you have some more juice? Would you like some more juice?
Will you give him this package? Would you give him this parcel?/Give him this parcel, please.
Will you wait a few? Wait a little, please./Will you wait a little?
More polite would:
Would you show me that vest? Please show me that vest over there.
Would you help me? Could you help me?
In addition, would often occurs in colloquial speech in such stable expressions How:
Would you mind... Be kind.../Be kind.../Do you mind...
Would you like... Would you like.../Would you like...
Would you be so kind as to...Would you be so kind.../Be kind...
Would you mind clothing the door? Do you mind closing the door?/Please close the door.
Would you like to take a walk? Do you want to go for a walk?/Don't you want to go for a walk?
Would you be so kind as to remove your finger from the pie? Please take your finger away from the pie.

Modal verb need expresses necessity and is used only in questions and negations.
You needn't lie to me. You don't need to lie to me.
In speech, need is mainly used not as a modal, but as a regular (semantic) verb and, accordingly, is used with auxiliary verbs, the particle to and takes endings that depend on time.
You don't need to lie to me. You don't need to lie to me.

A similar situation is observed in the case of the verb dare, which has translations: “to dare”, “to dare”, “to dare”, “to dare”, etc. Dare can also be used as a semantic and as a modal verb, but in fact it is used mainly as a modal (as opposed to need). Dare as a modal verb is used only in interrogative and negative sentences.
Dare you use my own knowledge against me? You dare to use my knowledge against me?
I dare to ask you a private question. I dare to ask you a personal question.

Related materials:

In English, there are special verbs that are necessary to express ability, opportunity, obligation, permission. They are not subject to the rules for forming forms of ordinary verbs. Modal verbs in English occupy a separate level of grammar; their meanings must be remembered so as not to get into an awkward situation. Let's look at the basic modal verbs, the rules for their use, and their meanings.

What is a modal verb?

A modal verb is a verb that does not express an action, but indicates possibility, necessity and other meanings. It is not used independently, but only in combination with a semantic verb expressed by an infinitive. Modal ones include might, must, can, could, ought, should and others. Only some of them have a past tense form, for example, can - could, while others use the perfect infinitive to express the completeness of the action:

He must have done it. - He must have already done it.

Among the formal distinctive features the following can be distinguished:

• Lack of ending - s in the 3rd person present tense. She can swim. - She can swim. He might be there. - He should be there.
• Lack of infinitive, gerund, and past participle.
• Lack of an auxiliary verb in interrogative sentences. The modal verb comes first in general questions and after the question word in special ones. Can you help me? -Can you help me? May I come in? - Can I come in? How can I help you? - How can I help?
• Formation of a negative form using the particle not without adding an auxiliary verb. We don't need to do that. - We don't need to do this.
• Many English modal verbs have equivalents. For example, to have (must), to be (must), to be able to (can, could), to be allowed (might, may).
• Most modal verbs are followed by a semantic verb expressed by an infinitive without the particle to, however, there are exceptions. For example, You ought to be more careful. - You should be more careful. This fact ought not to be mentioned so often. - This should not have been mentioned so often.

Modal verbs in English: rules of use

Let's look at the main modal verbs in English according to their meanings. Moreover, each modal verb can have more than one meaning:

Probability Expression

Verbs are used to express possibility or probability can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will and would. The speaker uses must, should if he is completely confident in his words.

He hasn`t had a lunch. He must be hungry. - he didn't have lunch. He must be hungry.

It`s very dark outside. It must be dangerous to home on foot. - It's very dark outside. Walking home is dangerous.

Ask Peter. He shouldn't know. - Ask Peter. He should know.

The speaker uses could, may, might to express the possibility of something in the future.

We might come late. - We might be late.

He may travel by plane. - Perhaps he will fly on an airplane.

Unless we hurry up, we could be late. - We might be late if we don't hurry up.

To express actions possible in the present or near past, the perfect infinitive is used.

It`s practically 3 o`clock now. She could have arrived now. - It's almost three o'clock. She could have already arrived.

He might have come hours ago. - She could have arrived several hours ago.

The English modal verbs could, can in the negative form with the particle not are used to express the impossibility of something in the past or present tense.

It was a joke. She couldn`t be serious. - It was a joke. She couldn't speak seriously.

It can`t be true.- This cannot be true.

Expression of physical ability and ability to perform an action

To express a person’s abilities and physical skills, the modal verb can is used. It has two tense forms: can to express a person’s abilities in the present and could - in the past. In other tense forms, the verb can be equivalent to to be able (to).

We can`t translate the text.- We cannot translate the text.

He couldn`t see me, I was too far. - He couldn't see me, I was too far away.

We'll be able to see each other very often. - We can see each other more often.

He has been able to help me. - He managed to help me.

Expressing permission to perform an action

The speaker uses the modal verb can to ask permission to do something. Past tense form could will mean the same thing, but will make the phrase more polite and formal.

Can I ask a question? - Can I ask a question?

Could I ask a question? - Let me ask a question.

The verb may has a modal meaning: to allow something to be done and can be used instead of can.

May I visit a doctor? - Can I visit the doctor?

Expression of obligation

To express obligation, the modal verbs must, have to, need to are usually used, the negative form of which is intended to express the absence of the need to do something. Most should verbs are in the present tense. Had to also has a past tense form.

I must pick up my daughter from the kindergarten. - I have to pick up my child from kindergarten.

When I was ill I had to take the pills two times a day. - When I was sick, I had to take pills 2 times a day.

To give advice to someone, we can also use the corresponding modal verbs should or ought to.

You should stop smoking. - You should quit smoking.

You ought to cut down the amount of meat you eat. - You should reduce the amount of meat you eat.

The modal verb ought to together with the perfect infinitive will help you criticize someone's behavior.

He should have made more effort on winning the medal. “He should have put in more effort and tried to win a medal.”

Table of modal verbs

For convenience and clarity, examples of modal verbs along with their meanings can be placed in a table.

	necessity of action	You must understand it. You must understand this.
		You mustn`t turn right. Right turns are prohibited.
		You should lose some weight. You should lose weight. You should`t drink coffee before going to bed. You shouldn't drink coffee before bed.
shouldn`t + perfect infinitive	criticize someone's style	You should`t have given your telephone number to a stranger. You shouldn't have given your phone number to a stranger.
		You ought to go to the dentist. You should visit the dentist.
	the need to perform an action	We need to talk to each other. We need to talk to each other.
	ask permission; talk about skills and abilities.	Can I take these documents? Can I take these documents? I could swim when I was 6. When I was 6 years old, I could swim.

Sentences with modal verbs are very common in English. It is important to learn to understand their meaning in each specific case.