MVP Beta — Open testing. No data collected.

Grammar reference

Modal Verbs

Polite Requests and Offers

Could, would, will, shall.

b1

Explanation

Could and would with please are the standard polite forms. Will you and can you are more direct. Shall I and shall we offer help or make suggestions. Would you mind takes an -ing form.

Examples

  • Could you send me the file?
  • Would you mind waiting a moment?
  • Shall I open the window?

Common mistakes

  • Would you mind to wait?

    Would you mind waiting?

    Would you mind takes -ing.

  • Could you please to send it?

    Could you please send it?

    No to after could.

  • Can you would help me?

    Could you help me?

    Use one modal only.

More Modal Verbs

Modal Verbs: Obligation and Advice

Must, have to, should, ought to.

Modal Verbs: Deduction and Possibility

Must be, might be, cannot be, should have.

Modal Verbs: Ability and Possibility

Can, could, be able to, manage to.

Modal Verbs: Permission and Prohibition

Can, may, be allowed to, must not.