Master expressing ability, possibility, obligation, and more like a native speaker. ¡Domina los modales en inglés!

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✨ Quick Highlights / Puntos Clave ✨

• Modals add meaning: English uses special "helper" verbs like can, should, must to show ability, advice, obligation, etc. They don't change form for subjects (I can, she can).
• Spanish is different: Spanish often uses regular conjugated verbs (poder, deber, tener que) or specific verb tenses (future, conditional) where English uses modals.
• Context is key: Understanding the subtle differences (e.g., must vs. have to, can vs. could) helps you sound more natural in English. ¡El contexto lo es todo!

🤔 What Exactly Are Modal Verbs in English? / ¿Qué Son los Verbos Modales en Inglés?

Meet Your Grammar Helpers

Hey there! 👋 Let's talk about a super useful part of English grammar: modal verbs. Think of them as special "auxiliary" or "helper" verbs. They don't usually work alone; instead, they team up with a main verb (in its basic form, without "to") to add a specific shade of meaning. They help you express things like:

• Ability / Habilidad: I can swim. (Puedo nadar.)
• Possibility / Posibilidad: It might rain. (Podría llover.)
• Obligation / Obligación: You must finish your homework. (Debes terminar tu tarea.)
• Permission / Permiso: May I sit here? (¿Puedo sentarme aquí?)
• Advice / Consejo: You should rest. (Deberías descansar.)
• Future Intentions / Intenciones Futuras: I will call you later. (Te llamaré más tarde.)

English Modal Verbs: The Core Group