6. Modals in The Past Form

“Would you mind posting the letter?”….. You often hear of the underline word. And our topic now is “modals in the past form”…

Modals in the past are:

Could.

Might.

Would.

Should.

The formula of Modals in the past form :

1. COULD + VERB BASE.

To offer Suggestion or Possibilities.

Example:

Cika:  “I’m having trouble with math.”

Riko: “Why you don’t ask Kiki? Perhaps she could help you.”

To indicate that ability existed in the past but doesn’t exist now.

Example:

Santi: “Nik, can you climb the mango tree?”

Niko: “Well, I could climb the mango tree when I was so young, but I think I’m too heavy to climb it.”

2. WOULD + VERB BASE.

For an action that was repeated regulary in the past.

Example:

Ani: “What did you do on holidays?”

Risma: “I would visit my grandparents and my other family in the village, but how not anymore.”

Insert rather into the pattern and use this expression to express preferences.

Example:

Jerry: “What would you rather do in weekend, go to the party or stay at home?”

Lita: “I would rather stay at home than go to the party.”

To express polite request.

Example:

Mr. Willy: “Would you mind posting the letter?”

Reva: “No, not at all.”

3. SHOULD + VERB BASE.

To give definite advice.

Example:

Mother: “Neva, you should study tonight. You will have math test tomorrow, won’t you?”

Neva:  “I will, Mom.

4. MIGHT + VERB BASE.

To tell possibilities

Example:

Dina: “Why is Riko taking the bus to get home?”

Rita: “He might get a flat time.”

To express polite request.

Example:

Rockly: “Might I borrow your book?”

Vera:  “Yes, of course.”