oxford_guide_to_english_grammar

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Modal verbs
90 Summary
Introduction to modal verbs • 91
The modal verbs (or 'modal auxiliary verbs') are will, would, shall, should, can,
could, may, might, must, need, ought to and dare.
I must go now. We can park here.
There are some expressions with have and be which have similar meanings to the
modal verbs.
I have to go now. We're allowed to park here.
These expressions can have other forms such as a past tense or a to-infinitive.
I had to hurry to get here. We asked to be allowed to go.
Modal verbs express meanings such as necessity and possibility. We can use
modal verbs to tell or allow people to do things; or we can use them to say how
certain or uncertain we are.
Necessity: must, have (got) to, needn't and mustn't • 92
I must go to the bank.
Obligation and advice: should, ought to etc • 93
You should answer the letter.
Permission: can, could, may, might and be allowed to • 94
We can leave our luggage at the hotel.
Certainty: will, must and can't
Mandy will be in London now.
Probability: should and ought to • 96
The rain should stop soon.
Possibility: may, might, can and could • 97
The keys may be in my coat pocket.