EF2/3 Modals and modal auxiliaries

One-word modals
can
could
may
might
must
should
will
would
**shall** - not commonly used

subject             + modal + infintive -"to"
Only poor people would           eat             lobsters.
Only poor people would eat lobsters 100 years ago.

poor/rich


Two-word modals
had better = should - a little bit stronger
ought to = should
have to = must
used to = special meaning, activity in the past

You should go to the doctor.
You had better go to the doctor.
You ought to go to the doctor.

The kids have to finish their homework by themselves.
The kids must finish their homework by themselves.

Maria used to do yoga. She doesn't do it any more.
Sarah used to live in Calgary. Now she lives in Burnaby.
I used to go hiking every weekend, but now I'm too busy with kids.
I used to go dancing, but I don't do it right now.
I used to drink, but I quit.
She didn't used to speak English, but now I do everyday.

DIFFERENT MEANING - NOT A MODAL
"used to"
I am used to Vancouver. I am happy and comfortable here.
She is used to speaking English. She is comfortable speaking English.


Three-word modals
be able to = can
"He is able to fix your computer."
"I am not able to work tonight."

be going to = will
"My sister is going to bake a cake."
"We are going to go skiing tomorrow."

be supposed to = should/must
"You are supposed to be on time to work."
"We are supposed to write a test today."

have got to = must, very strong
"You have got to clean your room before you go out with your friends."