Modal verbs in English

Request

Can, Could, Will, Would you? might

Examples
a. Can I borrow your pen?
b. Would you help me with my luggage?
c. Could you explain that again?
d. Might we discuss this further?
e. Will you be there tonight?

Polite Phrases

– Please, I’d appreciate it, if you could kindly, I’d be grateful, if it wouldn’t be too much to ask.
Examples
a. Please advise on the next steps.
b. I would appreciate your feedback on this matter.
c. Could you kindly confirm receipt of this message?
d. I’d be grateful for your help with this project.
e. Would it be too much trouble to ask for a favour?
Uses
• Used in formal and informal settings.
• More polite than commands.
• Often used in emails, customer service, and daily conversations.

Advice

Advice is a suggestion that helps someone decide or solve a problem, and it can be given directly or indirectly.

Structure

I. Modal Verbs – Should, ought to, had better, could
Examples:
a. You should take care of your health.
b. You ought to respect others’ opinions.
c. You had better not forget the deadline.
d. You could ask for help when needed.

Modal verbs in English

Read also: Worksheet-Future Simple Tense

Read also: Worksheet Modal verbs

Read also: 200 Idioms in English

Read also: Worksheet – Past simple

Read also: Exclamatory sentence worksheet

Modal verbs in English

Conditional Phrases

– If I were you.
Examples
a. If I were you, I’d think twice before deciding.
b. If I were you, I’d seek advice from an expert.
c. If I were you, I’d practice regularly to improve your skills.
d. If I were you, I’d stay organized to meet deadlines.
e. If I were you, I’d be more patient and persistent.

Modal verbs in English

Imperatives (Soft)

– Try, consider, avoid
Examples
a. Try practicing gratitude daily.
b. Consider learning a new language or skill.
c. Avoid multitasking to improve productivity.

Uses
• Used in personal, professional, and academic contexts.
• Can be formal (e.g. – professional advice) or informal (e.g. – friend’s suggestion).

Modal verbs in English

Issue a Command

A command is a direct order that demands compliance, often given in an authoritative tone and lacking politeness.
Structure

Base Verb (Imperative Mood)
Examples
a. Close the door behind you.
b. Write down the phone number.
c. Take a seat and wait for instructions.
d. Follow the safety guidelines.
e. Return the book to the library by Friday.

Negative Commands – Don’t + base verb
Examples
a. Don’t be late for the meeting.
b. Don’t forget to submit your application.
c. Don’t eat in the classroom.
d. Don’t disturb the wildlife.
e. Don’t ignore safety warnings.

Strong Tone: Often lacks subject (implied, you)
Examples
a. Be there on time!
b. Complete the task today.
c. Keep the noise level down.
d. Follow the instructions carefully.
e. Report to the manager immediately.
Uses
• Common in military, workplace orders, emergencies, and parenting.
• Can sound rude if overused in casual conversations.

Give an Instruction

An instruction is a step-by-step direction to complete a task. It is neutral and factual.
Structure
I. Sequencing Words: First, next, then, finally
Examples
a. First preheat the oven. Next mix the ingredients. Then pour the batter into a pan. Finally bake for 30 minutes.
b. First download the software. Next install it on your device. Then follow the setup instructions. Finally restart your computer.
c. First gather materials. Next assemble the parts. Then test the functionality. Finally calibrate the system.
d. First plan your itinerary. Next book your flights. Then pack essentials. Finally enjoy your trip.
e. First initialize the program. Next input the data. Then run the analysis. Finally review the results.

Modal verbs in English
Imperatives: Press, enter, turn, wait
Examples
a. Press the button to activate.
b. Enter your code to unlock.
c. Turn the dial to adjust.
d. Wait for the signal before proceeding.
e. Select the desired option to continue.

Modal verbs in English
Passive Voice (Formal Instructions)
Examples
a. The form should be filled out accurately.
b. All safety protocols must be followed strictly.
c. The premises must be vacated immediately.
d. Confidential documents should be stored securely.
e. Equipment maintenance must be performed regularly.
Uses
• Found in manuals, recipes, tutorials, and technical guides.
• Must be clear and concise to avoid confusion.


Key differences-Modal verbs in English

Feature	Request	Advice	Command	Instruction
Politeness	High (soft, indirect)	Moderate (suggestive)	Low (authoritative)	Neutral (factual)
Structure	Modal verbs + ‘please’	Should, could, if I were you.	Base verb, no subject	Step-by-step imperatives
Purpose	Ask for help/Favor	Offer suggestion	Demand action	Guide a process

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