Essential grammar (Essential Grammar Appendix p.P. ) Modal verbs and their equivalents

10. Translate the following sentences. Explain the meaning of the modal verbs can, may and must

A

1. He can translate this text without a dictionary. Can you translate it without a

dictionary? – No, I cannot (I can’t), I am not an expert in English.

2. Can a little boy lift a car? – No, he can’t. He cannot do it because the car is

too heavy for him.

3. If you cannot have the best, make the best of what you have.

4. You can’t have everything. Where would you put it? (Steven Wright).

B

1. May I smoke here? – Yes, of course you may, but you mustn’t. You better

smoke only in the smoking-room.

2. May we use a dictionary at the exam? – I think you needn’t.

3. The teacher said that we might use a dictionary, if we could not do without it.

C

1. The students must stand up when the professor comes in.

2. Must the students stand up when the professor comes in? – Yes, they must.

3. When must the lecture begin? – According to the timetable, the lecture must

begin at 9.30 a.m.

11. Translate the following sentences.

1. Goals may have to be revised from time to time to take advantage of

opportunities.

2. There are many other aspects of business that individuals will have to

understand and use if they want their business to be successful.

3. Business ventures have to be planned.

4. Some experience can be turned into a successful and thriving business.

5. Every business must buy right, produce products or services right, and sell

right in order to be successful.

6. Any factors can have a vital impact on your business.

7. We can’t conceive how he managed to do such a thing.

12. Replace the modal verbs with their equivalents and translate the

sentences

1. At present every student can explain the origin of the universe.

2. You can share equity between your employees.

3. No one may enter the lab while the test is going on.

4. Heidi was happy when at last she might study at the university.

5. According to the plan you must begin the test at 5 o'clock sharp.

6. You must help your friend whenever you have time.

7. You must rely on your friends.

8. No one may leave the class without teacher’s permission.

9. You could study better at the university.

10. You may use the lab when making your research.

13. Speaking practice. A foreign country

13.1. Read the sentences. Can you tell where these places are situated?

1. Among places of interest are the world famous buildings and architectural

masterpieces: Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s

Cathedral and others.

2. Buckingham Palace built in 1702-1705 is the Queen’s official residence.

3. Windsor Castle, standing on a rock overlooking the river Thames, was

founded by William the Conqueror.

4. The Barbican Centre is an enormous complex which contains two theatres, an

art gallery, a library, three cinemas, two restaurants and two exhibition halls.

5. According to a legend Hampton Court is haunted like many other old castles

and palaces.