Modal verbs are crucial elements in English grammar, offering nuanced expressions of ability, possibility, necessity, and obligation. Two prominent modal verbs, “can” and “must,” play distinct roles in conveying meaning and guiding communication.
In this lesson, we will delve into the multifaceted uses of “can” and “must,” examining how they encapsulate ability, possibility, permission, necessity, obligation, and strong recommendations.
Can:
Meaning:
Indicates ability, possibility, or permission.
Usage:
Ability:
”She can swim”.
Possibility:
”It can rain later”.
Permission:
”Can I borrow your pen?”
Must:
Meaning:
Expresses necessity, obligation, or a strong recommendation.
Usage:
Necessity:
”I must finish my homework tonight”.
Obligation:
”You must follow the rules”.
Strong Recommendation:
”You must try the chocolate cake”.
Usage guidelines:
Ability:
Use “can” to express physical or mental ability.
Example:
”She can speak three languages”.
Possibility:
Use “can” to express the possibility of something happening.
Example:
”It can be challenging to learn a new skill”.
Permission:
Use “can” to ask for or grant permission.
Example:
”Can I use your phone?”
Necessity:
Use “must” to convey a sense of necessity or obligation.
Example:
”I must finish this report by tomorrow”.
Obligation:
Use “must” to express a duty or obligation.
Example:
”You must submit your application by the deadline”.
Strong recommendation:
Use “must” to give a strong recommendation or express importance.
Example:
”You must visit the Louvre Museum in Paris.”
Understanding the distinctions between “can” and “must” is essential for clear and accurate communication. Practice using these modal verbs in various contexts to strengthen your language skills. Happy learning!
