Introduction
Modal verbs are essential in business English as they help express ability, possibility, necessity, and permission. Understanding how to use them correctly can significantly enhance your communication skills, especially in professional settings. Modal verbs frequently appear in the TOEIC Listening & Reading test, so mastering them is crucial for success.
Explanation
Modal verbs include "can," "could," "may," "might," "must," "shall," "should," "will," and "would." They are used with the base form of the main verb to convey different meanings:
Ability: "Can" and "could" are used to express ability.
Example: She can complete the report by tomorrow.
Possibility: "May," "might," and "could" indicate possibility.
Example: We might need additional resources for this project.
Necessity/Obligation: "Must" and "should" express necessity or obligation.
Example: You must submit the proposal by Friday.
Permission: "May" and "can" are used to grant permission.
Example: You may leave the meeting early.
Polite Requests/Offers: "Would" and "could" are often used for polite requests or offers.
Example: Could you please send me the details?
Common mistakes
Using "can" instead of "may" for permission in formal contexts.
Incorrect: Can I use your phone?
Correct: May I use your phone?
Confusing "must" with "have to": While both indicate necessity, "must" is often more formal and is used for internal obligations.
Incorrect: I must finish this by 5 PM. (when it's an external obligation)
Correct: I have to finish this by 5 PM.
Tips for the TOEIC test
Pay attention to the context in listening sections. Modal verbs can change the meaning of a sentence significantly.
In reading sections, look for modal verbs to understand the speaker's intention or the level of formality.
Practice identifying modal verbs and their functions in different business scenarios.
Mini practice
Fill in the blank: You ______ submit the report by the end of the day. (necessity)
Choose the correct modal verb: We ______ need to hire more staff next quarter. (possibility)
Rephrase the sentence: Can you help me with this task? (Make it more polite)
Answers
must
might
Could you please help me with this task?