modal verbs

Choice of word — and order — is important

Translating modal verbs

Modal verbs can be difficult to translate. Not only do you have to choose the right verb — you also have to get the verbs in the right order. Test your skills in our short exercise.

In this test, we review modal verbs for possibility and certainty. Which modal verb is needed here?
"I'm quite interested in moving into marketing. I might/must apply for the new position that opened up last week."

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Modal verbs

In business English, modal verbs are essential. Use them to express ability, possibility, permission, intention and obligation. Here are some tips on how to use them.

Email: the best way to communicate

Learn the vocabulary to talk about emails. Is it really the best way to communicate? This test focuses on useful email expressions.

Modal translations

Modal verbs are used to express ability, possibility, permission, intention and obligation. We've created a test to help you learn when to use them.

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Grammar: Using "would"

One of the many uses of the verb "would" is to refer to repeated or habitual actions in the past. For example: When I lived in London, I would always take the underground to work. Here is an exercise so you can practise using this verb.

Mustn't use must

A word of advice: parents can always tell their children they "must" do something, colleagues rarely can. It's possible to use this modal verb in business situations, but it can sound impolite and more authoritarian than authoritative.

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Respekt einflößend

Modal verbs

How many modal verbs do you know? You should know "may" and "might" — but do you know when to use them correctly?

The perfect modals

Perfect modal verbs! No, we're not talking about pretty-looking verbs, we're talking about more advanced verb forms, such as "could/might/should have done". Test your knowledge of them here.

Should you?

The modal auxiliary “should” has several different uses and meanings. We look at formal and informal usage in this short, interactive test. You should try it!

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modal verbs

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