Uses of modals to express habit

a) Modal forms expressing habit

b) Past habit: ‘used to’ and the simple past

Used to refers only to the past. We rely on used to to refer to habits that we no longer have, so there is a contrast between past and present. This contrast is often emphasized with expressions like but now..., but not... any more/any longer which combine with the simple present:

I used to smoke, but I don’t any more/any longer.

I never used to eat a large breakfast, but I do now.

c) Past habit: ‘used to’, ‘would’ and the simple past

We can refer to past habit in the following ways:

When I worked on a farm, I always used to get up at 5 a.m.

When I worked on a farm, I would always get up at 5 a.m.

When I worked on a farm, I always got up at 5 a.m.

Would can be used in place of used to, but, like the simple past, it always requires a time reference. We often use it to talk about regular activities, particularly in narrative, or when we are reminiscing. Would is never used at the beginning of a story: the scene must first be set with the simple past or used to.

Exercise 147. Comment on the uses of the modal verbs. Translate the sentences into Russian.

1. ‘If you are in trouble,’ I said, ‘you must send for me.’ 2. ‘You must listen to me, Jim Wilson,’ she said with almost an accent of command. 3. Davit’s expression showed disappointment, relief, a little anger. ‘You ought to have arranged an appointment,’ he said irritably. 4. What can have happened to change him so much? 5. ‘She smashed his kite. He says he’ll never forgive her for that till his dying day.’ ‘He must be crazy.’ 6. Perhaps for the first time in his life Freddy would not listen to his father. 7. Someone’s got to do it sometime and it might as well be you. 8. Madam, may I speak to you a moment? 9. He could not have left her at such a moment — he couldn’t! 10. He had to go — he was obliged to go, to see about the land over there! 11. Remember, it’s some of the money I ought to have had. You are to use it to make your way. 12. ‘What’s happened to the dog?’ I said. ‘It isn’t here. His master may have taken it with him.’ 13. ‘It’s early yet. We might walk part of the way,’ he suggested. 14. Cars must not be parked in front of the entrance. 15. I’m quite well and I will not go abroad. Why will you bother me so about my health? 16. Need you be so inflexible, Blanche? 17. Look up, Tom, look up. Boys as they go to boarding schools should hold their heads up. 18. You can get a taxi just at the end of the street. You won’t have to walk more than a few yards. 19. No, we are not going to fight at all if you’ll only let me talk. 20. I think I ought to stand the tickets; he’s always hard up, you know. 21. I’ve got to run now because I have a date. 22. One mustn’t shirk one’s responsibilities. Not even the painful ones. 23. ‘Boys of your age ought to be in bed by eight,’ she said.’ ‘No wonder you’re tired in the morning.’ 24. ‘Shall I serve?’ said Doris. 25. He’s obstinate, and when he’s once made up his mind nothing can move him. 26. ‘I must do my best for her,’ thought Julian, ‘he left her to me in his will. But what is the best?’ 27. ‘What can I do for you?’ he said in cordial tones. 28. The rules said you must lie quietly at rest in your bed as a help to getting well. 29. The arrangement was that you were to give your views and I was to say what I thought of them. 30. He needn’t have bought such a large house. His wife would have been quite happy in a cottage. 31. You can go if you want to, of course, but could you leave the boy here if only for half an hour?

Exercise 148. Comment on the uses of the modal verbs. Translate the sentences into Russian.

1. Why should we put an end to all that’s sweet and lovely? What must come will come. 2. It is but right they should do their share. 3. Awfully sorry, Mother, I’ve got to go out to dinner now. 4. You should have left me alone. It’s all I’m fit for. 5. You might have asked me if I had an objection. 6. We may have to take steps. 7. ‘Oh,’ cried Fleur. ‘You can’t have done it!’ 8. It might have been worse. 9. I must talk to you, Percy. You may as well have a drink while you listen. 10. This was a scene — it could be nothing else and he must face it. 11. He took a position from which he could see what was going around. 12. ‘The old actor was drunk,’ thought he. ‘Still there may be truth in what he said.’ 13. I hear somebody’s steps on the stairs. She must be coming! 14. You shall not search my rooms. 15. I will make your excuses to Margaret. 16. Need it be finished by Saturday? 17. Judging from the books and papers on his writing-table he must have been working for several hours. 18. Surely Holly might have told him all this before. 19. They may not have come back yet. Let’s ring them up and find out. 20. I wonder what that could have meant. 21. If you will keep your watch half an hour slow it is hardly surprising that you are late for your appointments. 22. Do you think you could complete it by the evening? 23. I think we might be great friends. 24. Surely you can’t have eaten all of it. 25. You could easily have been killed. 26. By the end of the evening I almost felt that I ought to call him ‘Uncle Jack’. 27. Felix said hastily, ‘Forgive me. I shouldn’t have troubled you.’ 28. You can be really annoying, you know! 29. You might have drowned! 30. Jack would get lost, wouldn’t he? It’s typical!

Exercise 149. Use the appropriate form of the Infinitive of the verbs in brackets. Translate the sentences into Russian.

1. If she had any sense of humour, it must (to amuse) her that he should place her on a pedestal and worship her with such an honest idolatry, but even while she laughed she must (to touch). 2. “I thought I was (to give) some fish for supper, Nora?” — “Harry, I meant to get you some but I was prevented from going out. You see, Tom Wood next door was taken ill last night, and this morning he had (to take) to hospital.” 3. Her regret was disapproved of. She ought (to know) her own mind; no dependable woman made these mistakes. 4. It was a tall, shabby building, that can not (to paint) for years, and it had so bedraggled an air that the houses on each side of it looked neat and clean. 5. Some day I will (to show) the world what it is; and for that reason the world shall never (to see) my portrait of Dorian Grey. 6. They live as we all should (to live), undisturbed, indifferent, and without disquiet. 7. But it happened many years ago. It is best forgotten. Mrs. Cheverly may (to change) since then. 8. One’s past is what one is. It is the only way by which people should (to judge).

Exercise 150. Paraphrase the following sentences using modal verbs.

1. He spoke perhaps tactlessly. 2. Probably he was very busy that day. 3. It is impossible he should have come so late. 4. It was necessary for her to send for a doctor, as the child had a high temperature. 5. Let’s have dinner at the restaurant. 6. I am sure that they will go to the South in summer. 7. I am sure that he has been to Kiev before. 8. We shall perhaps go to the cinema tonight. 9. The weather will perhaps be fine tomorrow.

Exercise 151. Fill in the blanks with modal verbs.

* * *

Mr. Black: Well, Doctor, how is he?

Doctor: I don’t think it’s anything serious, but he... stay at home for a few days.

Mr. Black: Oh, dear.... he stay in bed?

Dосtоr: No, he.... But he... keep quiet.

Mr. Black: That’s difficult, he’s such a lively child. Does he... to stay indoors?

Doctor: Yes, he certainly.... He... get cold on any account.

Mr. Black: Paul will be pleased that he doesn’t... to go to school, but I... say I am!

Doctor: You... worry. I’m sure it won’t be for long.

* * *

Henry: I don’t know what mother will say.

Rose:... we tell her?

Henry: Of course, we....

Rose: We don’t … to tell her everything though.

Henry: Thank goodness for that!

Rose: But she... to know most of it.

Henry: Well, you... say anything tonight. She’ll take it better in the morning.

Rose: No, we... tell her tonight. It’ll be in all the newspapers tomorrow.

Henry: You... worry about that. She never reads them.

Rose: No, but other people do. We … leave her to find out from somebody else.

Henry: Oh, dear! Do we... to tell her about the policeman?

Rose: I think we’d better. He … come here asking for us.

Henry: Well, you … to tell.

Rose: I daren’t. I’m going straight to bed.

* * *

A.... he report the accident?

B. Of course he’s got to.

A. Well, does he... to report it straightaway?

* * *

A.... we discuss the problem?

B. I’m afraid we... to.

A. Well, do we need to discuss it straightaway?

Exercise 152. Use the appropriate Infinitive forms.

1. “Look here, Rose, you are an awfully nice girl. I’m sure you must (to understand) what I’m feeling like. Can’t you (to help) me in any way?” I can (to imagine) at this point that Lawrence must (to look) extremely appealing. Rose softened. “Oh, sir, I’m sure — if any of us could (to help) in any way.” 2. Mrs. Frost gave evidence that she had heard no voice in the study and had imagined that the room was empty, but her husband might (to sit) at the writing table, in which case she would not have seen him. She knew of no enemy who might (to have) a grudge against him. 3. “My nephew,” she explained, “is coming down today. I have (to see) to everything myself. You cannot (to trust) a maid to air a bed properly, and we must (to have) a meat meal tonight. Gentlemen require such a lot of meal. Do they not? And drink. There should (to be) some drink in the house.” — “If I can (to do) anything...” I began. “Would you (to like) to bring him to dinner at my house?” I asked. 4. I needn’t (to tell) her, need I? I told her because I wanted to have something worth telling her. 5. “He planned her death carefully. She was (to let) him know if she were leaving Wood Leigh Common — he instructed her to meet him at the Inn where you and Mrs. Oliver lunched. She was (to find) Sir Ring...” — “Mad,” said Joliffe Butler. “He must (to be) mad.”

Exercise 153. Translate into English.

(A) 1. — Вы можете сказать несколько слов об этой книге?

— Нет, не могу, я не читала этого романа.

— Вы должны прочитать его обязательно, он не может не понравиться вам. Вы, должно быть, слышали, что по этому роману поставлен телефильм.

— Да, я слышала об этом, но не смогла его посмотреть, так как, когда его показывали по телевизору, мне пришлось уехать в командировку на два месяца.

2. — Когда вам нужно пойти в Библиотеку иностранной литературы?

— Я должна пойти туда на этой неделе поработать с Оксфордским словарем,

— Можно я пойду с вами? Я не была там никогда, и мне придется потратить много времени зря, так как я не знаю эту библиотеку.

— Конечно, можете пойти со мной. Неужели вы там не были?

— Нет, не была. Я обычно хожу в Национальную библиотеку, когда мне нужно почитать научную литературу.

3. — Вы, должно быть, уже написали доклад. Можно я просмотрю его? Я не могу составить план изложения материала.

— В начале работы следует рассказать о цели вашей работы, затем нужно сказать, что вы читали по этому вопросу, затем дать примеры. Неужели вы не консультировались с преподавателем?

— Я не могла прийти на консультацию, так как болела в это время. Теперь мне можно и не ходить на консультацию, я все поняла.

4. — Какую главу нам нужно приготовить к следующему уроку? Мне пришлось пропустить занятия, так как заболела мама.

— Мы должны повторить пять глав и подготовиться к контрольной работе. Рассказать тебе, что мы делали на прошлом уроке?

— Если ты можешь задержаться сегодня, я буду очень благодарна. Но у тебя, должно быть, нет времени, ведь ты живешь так далеко.

5. — Неужели ты не пойдешь смотреть английский фильм? Вся наша группа собирается пойти. Фильм должен быть очень интересным.

— Я знаю, что нам нужно смотреть фильмы на английском языке. Но сегодня я не могу пойти, мне нужно подготовиться к семинару.

— Тебе следовало бы подготовиться к семинару заранее, а не оставлять все на последний день.

Exercise 154. Discuss the difference, if any, in the following groups of sentences.

1. a. May I use your phone?

b. Could I use your phone?

c. Can I use your phone?

2. a. You should take an English course,

b. You ought to take an English course.

с. You’re supposed to take an English course.

d. You must take an English course.

3. a. You should see a doctor about that cut on your arm.

b. You had better see a doctor about that cut on your arm.

с. You’ll have to see a doctor about that cut on your arm.

4. a. You must not use that door.

b. You don’t have to use that door.

5. a. I will be at your house by six о clock.

b. I should be at your house by six o’clock.

6. — There is a knock at the door. Who do you suppose it is?

a. It might be Sally.

b. It may be Sally.

c. It could be Sally.

d. It must be Sally.

7. — There’s a knock at the door. I think it’s Mike.

a. It may not be Mike.

b. It couldn’t be Mike,

с. It can’t be Mike.

8. Where’s Jack?

a. He might have gone home.

b. He must have gone home.

c. Не had to go home.

9. a. Each student should have a health certificate.

b. Each student is to have a health certificate.

с. Each student must have a health certificate.

10. a. If you’re having a problem, you could talk to Mrs. Anderson.

b. If you’re having a problem, you should talk to Mrs. Anderson.

11. a. I’ve got to go.

b. I have to go.

с. I should go.

d. I’m supposed to go.

e. I’d better go.

f. I’d prefer to go.

12. — I needed some help.

a. You should have asked Tom.

b. You could have asked Tom.

13. a. When I was living at home, I would go to the beach every weekend with my friends.

b. When I was living at home, I used to go to the beach every weekend with my friends.

Exercise 155. Choose the sentence closest in meaning to the given one.

1. It’s possible that we’ll know the answers tomorrow.

a) We may know all the answers tomorrow.

b) We should know all the answers tomorrow.

2. I don’t think you should ring him now. It’s rather late.

a) You might not ring him now. It’s rather late.

b) You’d better not ring him now. It’s rather late.

3. You needn’t come if you don’t want to.

a) You won’t come if you don’t want to.

b) You don’t have to come if you don’t want to.

4. I think it’s wrong for you to work so hard.

a) You don’t have to work so hard.

b) You shouldn’t work so hard.

5. Perhaps these are the keys.

a) These might be the keys.

b) These must be the keys.

6. I know. Why don’t we go out to eat instead?

a) I know. We must go out to eat instead.

b) I know. We could go out to eat instead.

7. It would be quite wrong for us to lock the cat in the house for a week.

a) We’d better not lock the cat in the house for a week.

b) We can’t lock the cat in the house for a week.

8. It’s possible that the decision will be announced next week.

a) The decision might be announced next week.

b) The decision will be announced next week.

Exercise 156. Choose the most suitable word or phrase.

1. There’s someone at the door. It can be/must be the postman. 2. Don’t worry, you don’t have to/mustn’t pay now. 3. I think you had better/would better take a pullover with you. 4. Jones could be/must be president if Smith has to resign. 5. Sorry, I can’t stay any longer. I have to go/might go. 6. It was 5 o’clock an hour ago. Your watch can’t be/mustn’t be right. 7. It’s a school rule, all the pupils are to wear/must wear a uniform. 8. I suppose that our team must win/should win, but I’m not sure. 9. Let’s tell Diana. She could not/might not know. 10. In my opinion, the government might do/should do something about this. 11. I don’t think you could/should tell anyone yet. 12. That mustn’t/can’t be the hotel Jane told us about. 13. There are times when the traffic here can/could be really heavy. 14. We are enjoying our holiday, though the weather could/must be better. 15. You couldn’t/shouldn’t really be sitting here. 16. You could/may be older than me, but that doesn’t mean you’re cleverer. 17. No member of the association must/shall remove official documents from these premises without written permission.

Exercise 157. Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given.

1. I think you should give up smoking immediately.

had I think you had better give up smoking immediately.

2. I expect we will get there by 5.00, if there isn’t too much traffic.

should We … 5.00, if there isn’t too much traffic.

3. Is it necessary for me to bring my passport?

have Do … to bring my passport?

4. I am sure that the cat is in the house somewhere.

be The cat … in the house somewhere.

5. An aerial is not required with this radio.

have You don’t … an aerial with this radio.

6. It is very inconvenient if you can’t drive.

to It’s very inconvenient if … drive.

7. I am sure that John is not the thief.

be John … the thief.

8. All students should report to the main hall at 9.00.

are All students … to the main hall at 9.00.

9. I thought that you would know better!

ought You … better!

Exercise 158. Choose the most suitable word or phrase.

1. We can’t be lost. It isn’t allowed/I don’t believe it. 2. Late-comers are to report to the main office. It’s a good idea/It’s the rule. 3. You don’t have to stay unless it’s necessary/if you don’t want to. 4. Astronauts must feel afraid sometimes. They are supposed to/It’s only natural. 5. You can’t come in here. It isn’t allowed/I don’t believe it. 6. All motorcyclists have to wear crash helmets. It’s a good idea/ It’s the rule. 7. I ought not to tell Jack. It’s not a good idea./It’s the rule. 8. We should be there soon. I expect so/It’s certain. 9. You’d better leave now. That’s my advice/That’s an order!

Exercise 159. Complete each sentence so that it contains might, might not, must, mustn’t, can or can’t. More than one answer may be possible.

1. Don’t stand up in the boat! You... fall in the river! 2. She says she’s stuck in the traffic and she... be late. 3. You really... start spending more time on your work. 4. Tell Peter he... stay the night here if he wants to. 5. That’s a really stupid idea! You... be serious, surely! 6. You... realize it, but this is very important to me. 7. Don’t be silly. You... expect me to believe you! 8. We’re not sure but we... go to Prague for Christmas this year. 9. Me learn to fly! You... be joking! 10. Bill cooked the lunch, so you... expect anything special!

Exercise 160. Rewrite each sentence so that it contains can, could, must, have to or should (including negative forms).

1. I’m sure that Helen feels really lonely. 2. You’re not allowed to park here. 3. It would be a good idea if Harry took a holiday. 4. I’m sure that Brenda isn’t over thirty. 5. Do I need a different driving licence for a motorbike? 6. What would you advise me to do? 7. Mary knows how to stand on her head. 8. You needn’t come with me if you don’t want to. 9. It’s possible for anyone to break into this house! 10. The dentist will see you soon. I don’t think he’ll be long. 11. I’m sure it isn’t the way to the forest. 12. This beast is possibly dangerous. 13. I expect this street will be deserted. 14. He is sometimes really boring! 15. How about playing tennis instead?

Exercise 161. Complete each sentence with a suitable word or phrase.

1. It’s odd that you... know Wendy too! 2. You... better not take any more medicine now. 3. All students... report to the registrar’s office on arrival. 4. How about going to the lake? We... take a cold lunch with us. 5. I’m not sure about my application.... I send two copies or three? 6.... that really be Paula’s husband? He looks so young. 7. This... be the place I suppose, but it doesn’t look like it. 8. Both the clocks say 4.30, so that... be the time. 9. What about this meat?... I roast it or stew it? 10. Harry studies a lot. He... know the answers. 11. Oh well, things... much worse I suppose. 12. It’s no use waiting here. We... well start walking. 13. Jack refuses. He says it’s wrong and he... do it. 14. Cairo... be quite cold in winter. 15. Rule 6. No member... enter the bar area wearing sports kit. 16. Quite honestly, you might as... not bother.

Exercise 162. Choose the most suitable response.

a) A. What did I do wrong?

B. 1) You shouldn’t have connected these two wires.

2) You didn’t have to connect these two wires.

b) A. Why is the dog barking?

B. 1) It should have heard something.

2) It must have heard something.

c) A. Why are you home so early?

B. 1) I needn’t have worked this afternoon.

2) I didn’t have to work this afternoon.

d) A. Why did you worry about me? I didn’t take any risks.

B. 1) You must have been injured.

2) You could have been injured.

e) A. You forgot my birthday again!

B. 1) Sorry, I should have looked in my diary.

2) Sorry, I had to look in my diary.

f) A. We had a terrible crossing on the boat in a storm.

B. 1) That didn’t have to be very pleasant!

2) That can’t have been very pleasant!

g) A. Where were you yesterday? You didn’t turn up!

B. 1) I had to go to London.

2) I must have gone to London,

h) A. What do you think about the election?

B. 1) The Freedom Party had to win.

2) The Freedom Party should have won.

i) A. There’s a lot of food left over from the party, isn’t there?

B. 1) Yes, you couldn’t have made so many sandwiches.

2) Yes, you needn’t have made so many sandwiches.

j) A. What do you think has happened to Tony?

B. 1) I don’t know, he should have got lost.

2) I don’t know, he might have got lost.

Exercise 163. Add correct question tags to the following statements with modal verbs.

1. My parents must have guessed something,...? 2. They had to ask for your permission first,...? 3. You’d rather keep it a secret,...? 4. She’d better end with him once and for all,...? 5. Weddings in the old days used to be more showy,...? 6. They might get along well,...? 7. You should be in bed by now,...? 8. You can’t speak Swahili,...? 9. You’d better answer the telephone,...? 10. You could; always borrow the money,...? 11. Nothing could be better,...? 12. It was to happen,...? 13. You’d rather be staying at home,...? 14. You shouldn’t have made such a fuss,...? 15. My boss needs a new car,...? 16. We need to go at once,...? 17. England needed a strong king in that particular period,...? 18. I may call you by your first name,...? 19. You shouldn’t be able to help me out,...? 20. She used to read a story to her son before bedtime,...?

Exercise 164. Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given.

1. It wasn’t necessary for me to go out after all.

have I needn’t have gone out after all.

2. There was a plan for Jack to become manager, but he left.

was Jack … manager, but he left.

3. It was a mistake for you to buy that car.

bought You … that car.

4. I don’t think Sally enjoyed her holiday.

have Sally … enjoyed her holiday.

5. It’s possible that Bill saw me.

may Bill … me.

6. I’m sure that Karen was a beautiful baby.

been Karen … a beautiful baby.

7. Perhaps Alan didn’t mean what he said.

meant Alan … what he said.

8. It’s possible that I left my wallet at home.

could I … my wallet at home.

9. I think you were wrong to sell your bike.

shouldn’t You … your bike.

10. You must be thirsty, so can I offer you some tea?

like You must be thirsty, so …some tea?

11. If I were you, I wouldn’t buy a dog.

should I don’t think you … a dog.

12. I’m sure that Jack hasn’t left home yet.

have Jack … home yet.

13. I suppose that this is Trafalgar Square.

be This … Trafalgar Square.

14. Perhaps Jean’s plane was delayed.

been Jean’s plane … delayed.

15. It was unnecessary for you to come early today.

have You … come early today.

16. Tony is supposed to be here by now.

been Tony … here by now.

17. Perhaps this is the answer.

be This … the answer.

Exercise 165. Choose the most suitable phrase.

1. We should have turned left. We’ve missed the turning/We followed the instructions. 2. We didn’t have to wear uniform at school. But I never did/That’s why I liked it. 3. The butler must have stolen the jewels. He was ordered to/There is no other explanation. 4. You could have phoned from the station. I’m sure you did/Why didn’t you? 5. You needn’t have bought any dog food. There isn’t any/There is plenty. 6. Ann might not have understood the message. I suppose it’s possible/She wasn’t supposed to. 7. You can’t have spent all the money already! You weren’t able to/I’m sure you haven’t. 8. I shouldn’t have used this kind of paint. It’s the right kind/It’s the wrong kind.

Exercise 166. Choose the most suitable words underlined.

1. That can’t have been/shouldn’t have been Nick that you saw. 2. You had had to give/might have given me a hand! 3. I caught a later train because I had to see/must have seen a client. 4. I suppose Bill should have lost/might have lost his way. 5. I didn’t refuse the cake, as it must have been/would have been rude. 6. I don’t know who rang, but it could have been/must have been Jim. 7. It was odd that you should have bought/would have bought the same car. 8. I asked them to leave but they couldn’t/wouldn’t go. 9. It’s a pity you didn’t ask because I could help/could have helped you. 10. It’s your own fault, you can have/shouldn’t have gone to bed so late.

Exercise 167. Insert the verbs can, could, may, might, should, would.

1.... you be prosperous and happy! 2. I trust that your fears... not be realized. 3. In my perplexity I appealed to my guide to know what I... do. 4. A good general makes every preparation against defeat,... such a contingency arise. 5. It makes my blood boil to think that such] cruelties... go on around us. 6.... such circumstances arise, I shall take steps to deal with them. 7. Whatever... have happened, the result is the same. 8. Who can say what... have happened, had not the accident been averted? 9. Some of these rocks... perhaps have been deposited by passing icebergs. 10. He was so indifferent to public opinion that he did not care what the papers... say. 11. I... support your enterprise, but I am not yet convinced that it deserves it. 12. With a little encouragement, he... do wonders. 13. I am not likely to be moved by anything you... say; I judge by results. 14. Let him show what he has done; then we... perhaps believe his words. 15. We hope that Your Majesty... long rule over us, and that your reign... be as glorious as those of your predecessors.

Exercise 168. Rewrite each sentence so that it contains the word in capitals, and so that the meaning stays the same.

1. It wasn’t very nice of you not to invite me to your party. (MIGHT) 2. Thank you very much for buying me flowers! (SHOULDN’T) 3. It wouldn’t have been right to let you do all the work on your own. (COULDN’T) 4. I don’t believe that you have lost your keys again! (CAN’T) 5. Mary was a talented violinist at the age of ten. (PLAY) 6. Perhaps they didn’t notice the tire was flat. (MIGHT) 7. The results are expected tomorrow. (KNOW) 8. They escaped possible injury when the car crashed. (HAVE) 9. A visa wasn’t necessary after all. (NEED)

Exercise 169. Rewrite each sentence so that it contains can’t, might, must, should or needn’t.

1. I’m sure that David took your books by mistake. 2. It was a mistake to park outside the police station. 3. It was unnecessary for you to clean the floor. 4. I’m sure that Liz hasn’t met Harry before. 5. I’m sure they haven’t eaten all the food. It’s not possible! 6. Jack is supposed to have arrived an hour ago. 7. Perhaps Pam and Tim decided not to come. 8. I think it was the cat that took the fish from the table! 9. It was a waste of time worrying, after all! 10. It’s impossible that we stayed at the same hotel, in that case. 11. It’s not necessary for you to wear a uniform. 12. I wouldn’t wake her up if I were you.

Exercise 170. Complete each sentence with a suitable word or phrase.

1. Don’t worry that Carol is late, she... missed the train. 2. I begged David to accept some money, but he... hear of it. 3. That was a lucky escape! You... been killed! 4. It was supposed to be a secret! You... told her! 5. I spent last week at the beach because I didn’t... go to school. 6. The plane is late. It... landed by now. 7. You... met my brother. I haven’t got one! 8. There is only one solution. The butler... done it. 9. So it was you who set off the fire alarm for a joke! I... known! 10. Pay attention to what Martin said. He... serious. 11. Fancy accepting the job like that! You... asked me first! 12. The test was no problem at all. It... easier in fact! 13. I’m sure Jack didn’t mean to ignore you. He... noticed you. 14. Hello, I’m home early. I... late at the office after all. 15. The meat is a bit burnt. You... cooked it for so long. I did tell you! 16. There were plenty of tickets left for the concert. We... them in advance. 17. Sally got home at four this morning. The party... really good! 18. This homework is not as good as usual. I think you... more time од it. 19. A child... given everything he or she wants. 20. You... here when Helen told the boss not to be so lazy! 21. Peter wasn’t here then, so he... broken your vase. 22. If you felt lonely, you... given me a ring. 23. It’s been more than a week. You... have some news by now! 24. You really... have gone to so much trouble! 25. I... have thought that it was rather difficult. 26. You should have seen Jim’s face! He... happier! 27. I’m sorry. I suppose... been a bit rude. 28. You really... so much trouble over me. 29. One thing is for sure, someone... known about it. 30. Was it really necessary? You... to tell the police, you know. 31. They... saved her from the fire, but the ladder didn’t reach her window. 32. Keep your fingers crossed. The traffic warden... noticed the car is parked on double yellow lines! 33. It’s funny... bought exactly the same dress as me! 34. Surely it... been Ann who told you.

Exercise 171. Correct any errors in these sentences.

1. You mustn’t have forgotten already! (error: can’t have forgotten) 2. Paul shouldn’t have been more helpful if he had tried. 3. Frank might not have understood what you said. 4. It was funny that she should have remembered me. 5. Harry may have won the match with a bit more effort. 6. You must have told me you had already eaten. 7. Fortunately I needn’t have gone to the bank in person. 8. You mustn’t have been so unkind! 9. I couldn’t have managed without you. 10. I have no idea who it was, but I suppose it would have been Ann.

Exercise 172. Choose the correct completion.

1. Dick painted his bedroom black. It looks dark and dreary. He … a different colour.

A. had to choose B. should have chosen

С must have chosen D. could have been choosing

2. Tom is sitting at his desk. He’s reading his chemistry text because he has a test tomorrow. He ….

A. could study B. should be studying

C. will study D. must be studying

3. When Mr. Lee was younger, he … work in the garden for hours, but now he has to take frequent rests because he has emphysema.

A. has got to B. can

C. should be able to D. could

4. Whenever my parents went out in the evening, I … the job of taking care of my younger brother.

A. would get B. should get

С must have gotten D. had better get

5. Yesterday I … to a furniture store. I bought a new lamp there.

A. could go B. went

C. could have gone D. ought to have gone

6. Jimmy and Maria were naughty children. They … tricks on their teachers, which always got them into a lot of trouble.

A. could play B. used to play

C. could have played D. may have played

7. Robert has a new car. He … it for a very good price. He paid 30 percent less than the regular retail cost.

A. could buy B. had to buy

C. was supposed to buy D. was able to buy

8. ‘Why are you so sure that Ann didn’t commit the crime she’s been accused of committing?’

‘She … that crime because I was with her, and we were out of town on that day.’

A. may not have committed B. wasn’t supposed to commit

C. committed D. couldn’t have committed

9. ‘Since we have to be there in a hurry, we … take a taxi.’ ‘I agree. ‘

A. had better to B. may

C. have been used D. are able to

10. ‘It … rain this evening. Why don’t you take an umbrella?’ ‘That’s a good idea. May I borrow yours?’

A. had better B. could be

C. must D. might

11. ‘… you hand me that pair of scissors, please!’ ‘Certainly.’

A. May B. Shall

С Will D. Should

12. Larry drove all night to get here for his sister’s wedding. He … exhausted by the time he arrived.

A. ought to be B. could be

C. must have been D. will have been

13. ‘What are you doing here now? You … be here for another three hours.’ ‘I know. We got an early start and it took less time than we expected. I hope you don’t mind.’

A. couldn’t B. might not

С had better not D. aren’t supposed to

14. ‘ … taking me downtown on your way to work this morning?’ ‘Not at all.’

A. Can you B. Why don’t you

C. Would you mind D. Could you please

15. ‘I locked myself out of my apartment. I didn’t know what to do.’ ‘You … your roommate.’

A. could have called B. may have called

C. would have called D. must have called

16. ‘You haven’t eaten anything since yesterday afternoon. You … be really hungry!’ ‘I am.’

A. might B. will

C. can D. must

17. ‘I … there at 6 p.m. for the meeting, but my car won’t start. Could you please give me a lift in your car?’ ‘Sure. Are you ready to go now?’

A. will be B. may be

C. supposed to be D. have got to be

18. ‘I left a cookie on the table, but now it’s gone. What happened to it?’ ‘I don’t know. One of the children … it.’

A. may have eaten B. could eat

C. had to eat D. should have eaten

19. Peter … rather sleep on a mattress than on the floor.

A. shall В. could

С. would D. must

20. ‘My boss is always looking over my shoulder whenever I do anything.’ ‘That … bother you.’ ‘But it does.’

A. shouldn’t B. might not

С may not D. won’t

21. ‘This movie is boring and too violent.’ ‘I agree. … leave?’

A. Will we B. Why don’t we

C. Must we D. Would we

22. ‘Chris, you … the fish in the refrigerator before it spoils.’ ‘You’re right. I didn’t know it was still in the shopping bag.’

A. had better put B. had to put

C. would rather put D. may put

23. ‘What does Mr. Griffin do for a living?’ ‘Nothing. He’s very rich. He … work for a living.’

A. must not B. shouldn’t

C. doesn’t have to D. hadn’t better

24. ‘Why are you so late?’ ‘I … my aunt to the airport. The traffic was terrible!’

A. could take B. must have taken

C. should take D. had to take

25. ‘I heard that Laura was offered a job at a top computer firm in Chicago.’ ‘Oh? That’s wonderful! She … very pleased.’

A. is supposed to be B. might be

C. must be D. is

26. ‘The hot weather doesn’t seem to bother you. ‘‘When I had my farm, I … work in the hot fields for hours.’

A. used to B. ought to

C. must D. had better

27. ‘I need some help with this table. … you lift the other end, please?’ ‘Sure. Just a second.’

A. May B. Should

С Could D. Shall

28. ‘How did you get my telephone number? It’s not listed in the phone book, so you … have found it in the directory.’ ‘I got it from your mother.’

A. may not B. won’t

C. might not D. couldn’t

29. There’s a law that says that you … throw trash on the streets.’

A. don’t have to B. must not

C. couldn’t D. might not

30. ‘Do you like to play tennis?’ ‘Yes. When I worked at the embassy, I … meet a friend at 5 every afternoon for a game.’

A. would B. should

C. had better D. would rather

31. ‘His new jacket doesn’t seem to fit him.’ ‘He … it on before he bought it.’

A. must have tried B. was able to try

C. should have tried D. may have tried

Exercise 173. Use a modal with each verb in parentheses. More than one modal may be possible. Use the one that seems most appropriate to you.

1. I’ve never seen a London policeman. — You (see) one! You’ve been in London a week already! 2.... I (call) for you? — No, I (get) a taxi and meet you at the station. 3. I heard their telephone ringing. — You (not hear) their phone ringing. They haven’t got a phone. 4. Don is putting on a little weight around his middle. He (get) more exercise. 5. Jack: I’ve finished. Ann: But you were only half way through when I went to bed. You (work) all night! 6. I’m sleepy. I (not keep) my eyes open. I (go) to bed before I fall asleep right here. 7. Zoo keeper: In spite of all the notices, people (feed) these animals. 8. In my country, a girl and boy (not go) out on a date unless they are accompanied by a chaperone. 9. The instructions were in French. I translated them into English for him. — You (not translate) them. He knows French. 10. Jones: Stand away from that door! You can’t keep me here against my will. Smith: You (not go) till you have given me an explanation! (I won’t let you go.) 11. You can trust me; nobody (know) that you are here. (I promise to keep it secret.) I (not) even (tell) my wife. 12. My wife and ten children are coming to join me here. They (not live) in my dormitory room. I (find) an apartment. 13. A:... I (speak) to Peggy? B: She (not come) to the phone right now.... I (take) a message? 14. Jimmy was serious when he said he wanted to be a cowboy when he grew up. We (not laugh) at him. We hurt his feelings. 15.... you (cash) this check for me? 16. A: How are you planning to get to the airport? B: By taxi. A: You (take) a shuttle bus instead. It’s cheaper than a taxi. You (get) one in front of the hotel. It picks up passengers there on a regular schedule. 17. You (not feed) the bears! (It was foolish of you to feed them.) Now they’ll be angry if the next campers don’t feed them too. 18. Nobody has been in this house for a month. — Nonsense! Here’s last Monday’s paper in the wastepaper basket; somebody (be) here quite recently. 19. Let’s go shopping. The shops (not be) crowded. Monday morning’s usually quiet. 20. Why... everyone (promote) except me? It’s not fair.

Exercise 174. Use a modal with each verb in parentheses. More than one modal may be possible. Use the one that seems most appropriate to you.

1. According to our teacher, all of our compositions (write) in ink. He won’t accept papers written in pencil. 2. The entire valley (see) from their mountain home. 3. Ann’s birthday was on the 5^th, and now it’s already the 8^th. Her birthday card (send) a week ago. Maybe we (give) her a call to wish her a belated happy birthday. 4. We (start) yesterday (this was the plan); but the flight was cancelled because of the fog, so we’re still here, as you see. 5. I left my car here under the No Parking sign; and now it’s gone. It (steal). — Not necessarily. The police (drive) it away. 6. He was riding a bicycle along the motorway when he was hit by the trailer of a lorry. These big lorries are very dangerous. — Perhaps, but Paul (not ride) a bicycle along the motorway; bicycles are not allowed. 7. Jane’s looking at the test paper the teacher just returned. She’s smiling. She (pass) the test. 8. It’s not like Tony to be late. He (be) here an hour ago. I hope nothing bad happened. 9. He used to have a day off once a week, and on that day he (get) up early, have a hasty breakfast and set out for the river. 10. I know that it will be difficult to pick him out in such a crowd, but if you (happen) to see him give him this packet. 11. Why didn’t you wait for me yesterday? — I waited five minutes. — You (wait) a little longer! 12. How did Peter get here? — He (come) on a motorcycle. (This is a possibility.) — He (not come) on a motorcycle. He doesn’t ride one. 13. Police Officer (in a loud speaker van beside a motorway in thick fog): They are going much too fast. I keep warning them to reduce speed but they (not do) it. 14. Last semester’s class was too large. It (divide) in half. 15. I wonder who carried the piano upstairs. — I suppose it was Paul. — Paul (not carry) it by himself. Someone (help) him. 16. (Alice, staying at a hotel for the first time, carefully washes up the early morning tea things.) Mother: You (not do) that. The hotel staff do the washing up. 17. Ann,... you (hand) me that dish? Thanks. 18. Tom (looking out of the window): Fortunately that teapot didn’t hit anyone, but you (not throw) it out of the window, Ann! You (kill) someone. 19. Look at this painting! Only a very great artist (paint) such a picture! — Nonsense! A child (paint) it with his eyes shut. 20. It looks like rain. We (shut) the windows.

Exercise 175. Use a modal with each verb in parentheses. More than one modal may be possible. Use the one that seems most appropriate to you.

1. I returned a book to the library yesterday. It was two weeks overdue, so I (pay) a fine of $ 1.40. I (return) the book when it was due. 2. Spring break starts on the thirteenth. We (not go) to classes until the twenty-second. 3.... I (make) an appointment to see Dean Witherspoon? 4. Neither of us knows the way to their house. We (take) a map with us or we’ll probably get lost. 5. You (not tell) Jack about the party. It’s a surprise party for him. 6. Secretary: There’s a Mr. Peterson in the outer office, sir. He says he has an appointment.... you (see) him now? Mr. Smith: I (not see) him now or at any other time. I told him so when we last met. And he hasn’t an appointment! 7. Excuse me. I didn’t understand.... you (repeat) what you said? 8. In the United States, elementary education is compulsory. All children (attend) six years of elementary school. 9. There was a long line in front of the theatre. We (wait) almost an hour to buy our tickets. 10. The car (not start) so we had to ring for a taxi. 11. The people in the flat above us were members of a band. We liked them very much but they (practise) the drums at night. Nothing we said made any difference. 12. I don’t feel like going to the library to study this afternoon. I (go) to the shopping mall than to the library. 13. Do you know where Tom is? — He (be) in the canteen. He’s usually there between twelve and one. 14. She asked me what she (do) if any letters came for me while I was away. I told her that my brother would come every day to pick up my mail. 15. When I rang the exchange and asked for the number the operator said, ‘You (not ring) the exchange! You (dial) direct!’ However, he put me through. 16. Bill proposed that women (allow) to join the club. 17. A: This is Steve’s tape recorder, isn’t it? B: It (not be) his. He doesn’t have a tape recorder. It (belong) to Lucy or to Linda. They sometimes bring their tape recorders to class. 18. A: Why is Margaret in her room? B: I don’t know. She (do) her homework. 19. A: Did Ed really mean what he said yesterday? B: No, I don’t think so. I think he (kid). 20. Johnny! You (not play) with sharp knives.

Exercise 176. Translate into English.

1. He трогай кошку, она может оцарапать тебя. 2. Собака может быть очень приятной компанией во время долгих загородных прогулок. 3. е могу удержаться, чтобы не сказать тебе, что ты не должен приходить, когда тебе вздумается. 4. Ситуацию можно было спасти одним единственным словом, и это все еще можно сделать. 5. — Твоя фотокамера, должно быть, очень дорогая. — Понятия не имею, сколько она может стоить. Это подарок. 6. Ни к чему тебе брать с собой все эти пакеты. Ты можешь оставить их в машине. 7. — Не нужно было вам ехать туда поездом. Мы могли отвезти вас на машине. — Мы не осмелились обратиться вам. 8. Нам не пришлось лететь туда самолетом, они отвезли нас на машине. 9. Он, должно быть, изучает физику, как и его отец. 10. — Бабушке может не понравиться такой подарок. — Ну, с ней ты не можешь быть полностью уверен. — Как ты осмеливаешься так говорить о ней! 11. Джон не мог потерять новые часы, он, вероятно, куда-то их переложил. 12. Она поняла, что и ей суждено было испытать всю горечь предательства. 13. — Возражение следует высказать сейчас же. — Я не осмеливаюсь сделать это. 14. Ты мог бы справиться с этим еще тогда. Осмелишься ли ты рискнуть сейчас? 15. Он, бывало, навещал их время от времени, но упорно не хотел писать писем. 16. Тебе лучше не носить ей больше шоколад, пока она лежит в больнице. 17. Пожалуй, я сегодня надену что-нибудь яркое. У меня депрессия. 18. Она никогда не осмеливается возражать своему боссу.

Exercise 177. Translate into English.

1. Она гладила белье, и время от времени выглядывала в окно. 2. Они, возможно, были слишком строги к своему сыну. 3. Иногда он просто невыносим, все равно будет все делать по-своему. 4. Напрасно ты убирала квартиру, уборщица придет завтра. 5. Ей не пришлось убирать квартиру. Дети уже сделали это. 6. Не нужно быть гением, чтобы понять это. 7. Я люблю тебя гораздо больше, чем мне следовало бы. 8. — Тебе в самом деле нужен компьютер? — Я не могу обойтись без него. 9. С какой стати мне впускать тебя в мою жизнь? 10. Он никак не хотел поверить в мою печальную историю. 11. Пора тебе относиться к жизни серьезнее! 12. Тебе следовало видеть, как Дэйвид готовил обед! Ты очень много потеряла! 13. — Нельзя полагаться на случай. Нужно что-то делать. 14. Учти, ты ответишь за всё это! Тебе придется сознаться во всем. 15. Не может быть, чтобы ты отказался от этой работы. Тебе следовало посоветоваться со мной.

Exercise 178. Translate into English.

1. Он должен быть там завтра. 2. Он может быть там завтра. 3. Он, возможно, будет там завтра. 4. Он, возможно, и будет там завтра. 5. Он, возможно, был там вчера. 6. Он, возможно, не был там вчера. 7. Он возможно и не был там вчера. 8. Он, вероятно, был там вчера. 9. Он должен был быть там вчера. 10. Не может быть, что он был там вчера. 11. Возможно ли, что он был там вчера? 12. Неужели он там был вчера? 13. Просто не может быть, что он был там вчера. 14. Ему незачем было быть там вчера. Он мог и позвонить. 15. Ему не следовало быть там вчера! 16. С какой стати ему быть там? 17. Ему надо быть там завтра. 18. Ему незачем быть там завтра. 19. Ему придётся быть там завтра. 20. Да будет он там! 21. Как смеет он быть здесь? 22. Как смел он быть там? 23. Он отказывался бывать там. 24. Следует ему быть там? 25. Ему предстоит побывать там. 26. Не может быть, чтобы он не был там вчера.

Exercise 179. Translate into English.

1. Я хотел, чтобы он тоже выступил. – Ты зря беспокоился и искал его. Он мог всё испортить. 2. Вчера я не сумел проверить все тетради, т.к. мне пришлось выполнять срочную работу. 3. Мне незачем вам говорить, почему это надо сделать, не привлекая ничьего внимания. 4. Ты напрасно ходил за ключом. Дверь была открыта. 5. Её можно было принять за немку. 6. С какой стати он так засмущался? 7. Тебе следует захватить плащ, может пойти дождь. 8. Земля сырая. Должно быть только что прошёл дождь. 9. Вам незачем было приходить. Мы могли закончить без вас. 10. Вечером она должна было пойти в ресторан, поэтому ей пришлось вымыть голову. 11. Она никак не хотела объяснить, на что потратила деньги. 12. Может быть, будет дождь, а, возможно, дождя не будет. 13. Посмотри на сугробы. Снег, наверное, шёл всю ночь. 14. Ты зря заказал место в гостинице. У нас есть комната для гостей. 15. Погода хорошая и мы могли бы прокатиться за город. 16. Неужели вы им поверили? Они, скорее всего, пошутили над вами. 17. В понедельник я ещё не смогу дать вам определённый ответ. 18. Может быть, она и была там, но я её не видела. 19. Он, должно быть, не готовил перевод заранее.

Exercise 180. Translate into English.

1. Ящик стола никак не открывался. 2. Если он это говорит, то это, должно быть, правда. 3. После экзаменов вы должны сдать все учебники в библиотеку. 4. Пожалуй, я пойду домой. 5. Ребёнок ничего не хочет есть. – Возможно, он не голоден. 6. Ваш сын мог бы быть поосторожнее. Он чуть не сбил моего ребёнка. 7. Когда мне нужно прийти? 8. Не видно было ни облачка. 9. Вы говорите, что не желаете это делать, а я говорю вам, что вы это сделаете. 10. Здесь должен хорошо расти укроп. 11. Он, бывало, заходил в это кафе каждый день в прошлом году. 12. Он сказал, что ему придётся уехать через несколько дней, но мы и слушать не хотели. 13. Он должен был приехать пятичасовым поездом, но его всё нет. И где это он может быть? – Откуда мне знать? 14. Она не могла это сделать! 15. Мы можем не спешить, поезд задерживается на два часа. 16. Трудно поверить, что они смогли подняться на такую гору. 17. Не может быть, чтобы дверь осталась открытой. 18. Я могу выучить это и обязательно (непременно) сделаю это. 19. Зря ты пришёл. Собрание отменили. 20. Я должна с ним увидеться в пятницу вечером. 21. Вам следует хорошо подумать о вам поведении! 22. Ах, ты так! Как ты смеешь мне перечить!? Я тебе покажу! 23. Вряд ли она оценит его доброту. Она ужасная эгоистка. 24. Погода здесь бывает хорошая. 25. Она ужасно рада, что вы пришли. 26. Возможно, они вообще не придут. 27. Ты наверняка знаешь его! 28. Автобусом вы туда не доедите. 29. Он, бывало, часто заходил к нам.

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