MODAL VERBS

Modal verbs express modality, ability, possibility, need or other condition.

indicates ability or possibility. In these cases it can be translated as "poder" in Spanish.

EXAMPLE

I can speak five languages.

Indicates ability or possibility in past

EXAMPLE

Joe could speak Spanish when he was young

Indicates possibility in the future

EXAMPLE

I would bring an umbrella, it may rain later.

indicates an obligation or recommendation. Reflects an opinion about what is right. It is translated as the conditional of "deber" in Spanish.

EXAMPLE

I should call my parents more often

to form the future time.

EXAMPLE

I will help you

to indicate possibilities in the present or the future. In these cases, it is a synonym of "may".

EXAMPLE

It might be better to finish this now, rather than wait until tomorrow.

to declare a preference and to ask for something politely.

EXAMPLE

I would bring an umbrella, it may rain later.