English Tip · 02 — Modal Verbs — Must, Should, Can: The Difference

Modals change the strength of what you’re saying. Must = 100% obligation or certainty. Should = recommendation or expectation. Can = ability or possibility.

Examples

• ‘You must stop.’ (law, no choice)
• ‘You should stop.’ (advice)
• ‘You can stop.’ (ability or permission)

Practice

Write the same piece of advice using must, should, and can. Which version would you use to a friend? To a boss? Notice how the modal changes the relationship.

Takeaway: The modal you choose reveals how much power you think you have.

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