Modal Verbs for Obligation and Permission
This page focuses on the usage of modal verbs in English, specifically "had to" and "be allowed to", to express obligation and permission across different tenses.
Expressing Obligation
The document outlines how to express obligation in different tenses:
- Past: had to + base verb
- Present: must + base verb
- Future: will have to + base verb
Definition: Obligation refers to the state of being morally or legally bound to do something.
Expressing Permission
For permission, the following structures are presented:
- Past: was/were allowed to
- Present: am/is/are allowed to
- Future: will be allowed to
Highlight: Understanding the difference between "had to" and "be allowed to" in English is crucial for expressing nuances of obligation and permission accurately.
Example:
- Obligation: "I had to finish my homework before dinner." Past
- Permission: "We are allowed to use calculators during the math exam." Present
This clear distinction helps students grasp the correct usage of these modal verbs in various contexts, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively in English.