Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Modal Verbs
Must not
May Not
We use must
We use can
-to express ability or
possibility.
-to request something.
We use cannot
-to express inability of impossibility
(something that is not going to happen).
-to forbid or prohibit something (tell
somebody they are not allowed to do
something).
Examples:
She cannot swim.
We use may
-to express possibility.
-to give permission.
-to request permission.
Examples:
It may rain today.
May I leave early?
Yes, you may leave early.
Example:
no.
-you need to use a comma after the yes or no.
Examples:
May I come to your party?
Yes, you may come to my party.
Must you talk so fast?
No, I can slow down for you.
Example:
May I borrow your book please? (polite)
Can I borrow your book please?