Modals and Usages - Solved Examples


Q 1 − … you go so soon? It’s only 6:30!

A - Must

B - Should

C - Can

D - Could

Answer - A

Explanation

"Must" is used in situations where the action is a requirement, or where the action can be predicted with much accuracy.

Q 2 − He … sing very well in his younger years.

A - Had to

B - Can

C - Could

D - Will

Answer - C

Explanation

"Could" is used to speak on the ability of the doer in the past time.

Q 3 − The company … close down if the loans are not paid soon.

A - Should

B - Shouldn't

C - Might

D - Will

Answer - D

Explanation

"Will" is used to talk about an action happening in the future.

Q 4 − You look very ill. … I call the doctor?

A - Will

B - Can

C - Must

D - Shall

Answer - D

Explanation

"Shall I" is a question form used to offer help politely, instead of the informal "Let me ..." or "allow me to ...".

Q 5 − If I can’t find it here, then I … have left my medicine in the car.

A - May

B - Could

C - Shouldn't

D - Must

Answer - D

Explanation

"Must" is used in situations where the action is a requirement, or where the action can be predicted with much accuracy.

Q 6 − You … take a raincoat with you. It looks like raining.

A - Shouldn't

B - Won't

C - Don't have to

D - Should

Answer - D

Explanation

"Ought to, should" are used to suggest actions, provide opinions and give advice.

Q 7 − You don’t … do what he says just because he says so.

A - Won't

B - Have to

C - Mustn't

D - Should

Answer - B

Explanation

"Don't/didn't/doesn't have to" is used in situations where the action wasn't mandatory to do.

Q 8 − Lindsay watched the movie in French, though she … understand much.

A - Didn't

B - Can't

C - Couldn't

D - Shouldn’t

Answer - C

Explanation

"Could" is used to speak on the ability of the doer in the past time. Similarly, "Could not" is used to speak about the disability of someone in doing an action in the present or future.

Q 9 − ... I have some more fruit juice?

A - Must

B - Could

C - Would

D - Have to

Answer - B

Explanation

"Could I" is a question form used to ask permission.

Q 10 − You ... eat more protein if you want to gain weight.

A - Should

B - Might

C - May

D - Could

Answer - A

Explanation

"Ought to, should" are used to suggest actions, provide opinions and give advice.

verbal_ability_modals_usages.htm