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Grammar Lessons

Modal Verbs Basics

Ability, Advice & Obligation

Modal verbs add meaning to other verbs — saying what you can do, what you should do, or what you must do. This lesson practises them through real questions about rules, advice, and what we're capable of.

Beginner · A2 Lesson ready

Grammar Focus

Five modals — five different meanings.

The five core modals

can / can't

Ability, possibility, or permission.

"I can speak three languages."

should / shouldn't

Advice or a mild recommendation.

"You should get more sleep."

must / mustn't

Strong obligation (internal) or prohibition.

"You must carry your ID at all times."

have to / don't have to

External obligation — rules from outside. Don't have to = not necessary (not forbidden).

"You don't have to come — it's optional."

Structure

All modals are followed by the base form of the verb — no -s, no -ing, no -ed.

+ Subject + modal + base verb — "She can handle it."
− Subject + modal + not + base verb — "You shouldn't give up."
? Modal + subject + base verb? — "Can you stand up for yourself?"

Vocabulary in Context

Six phrasal verbs that come up naturally with modal verbs. Each example shows a modal in action.

01

count on

Meaning

To rely or depend on someone or something with confidence.

Example

"You can always count on her — she never lets people down."

Conversation questions

  • Who can you count on unconditionally in your life?
  • Do you think you're someone others can count on? Why?
02

get away with

Meaning

To do something wrong or risky without being caught or punished.

Example

"You can't get away with cutting corners forever — eventually it catches up with you."

Conversation questions

  • Did you ever get away with something as a child that you probably shouldn't have?
  • Do you think people in powerful positions get away with more? Why?
03

stand up for

Meaning

To defend or support someone or something, especially when it is difficult.

Example

"You should stand up for yourself — don't let people take advantage of you."

Conversation questions

  • Can you think of a time you stood up for someone — or wish you had?
  • Do you think we have an obligation to stand up for people we don't know?
04

put up with

Meaning

To tolerate or accept an unpleasant situation or person without complaining.

Example

"You shouldn't have to put up with that kind of behaviour at work."

Conversation questions

  • What kinds of things can you put up with easily — and what do you absolutely can't tolerate?
  • Is there something you've been putting up with for too long?
05

live up to

Meaning

To meet the expectations or standards that others (or you) have set.

Example

"You can't always live up to everyone's expectations — and you shouldn't have to try."

Conversation questions

  • Do you feel pressure to live up to expectations — from family, colleagues, or yourself?
  • Is there something you've done that you felt didn't live up to your own standards?
06

get through

Meaning

To successfully complete or survive something difficult.

Example

"You can get through anything if you have the right support around you."

Conversation questions

  • What helps you get through difficult periods in your life?
  • Is there something you're currently trying to get through? How are you managing?

Conversation Practice

Questions grouped by theme — all using modal verbs. The modal to use is suggested in brackets.

Ability & Talent

  • What can you do really well that most people can't? (can)
  • Is there something you wish you could do but can't yet? (can)
  • What skill do you think everyone should be able to do? (should / can)

Advice

  • What's the best advice you can give to someone just starting out in your career? (should)
  • What do you think people should do more of? And less of? (should)
  • Is there something you know you should change about your habits but haven't yet? (should)

Rules & Obligations

  • What rules do you have to follow at work or in daily life that you think are unnecessary? (have to)
  • Are there things in your culture that people feel they must do — even if it's not a written rule? (must)
  • What's something you don't have to do but choose to do anyway — and why? (don't have to)