Modals in the Past Form

Modals in the past form : kata bantu pengandaian dalam bentuk lampau.

Modals in the past form are :

• Could
• Would
• Should
• Might

1. Could,is past form of "can".

It is used to express :

-Past ability (kemampuan di masa lampau)

Example : I could run fast when I was child.

-Polite request (meminjam sesuatu kepada seseorang)

Example : Could I borrow your pen ?

-Suggestion (saran)

Example : I need help in math.You could talk to your teacher.

-Less than 50% certainty (kepastian yg hanya 50%}

Example : Where is John ?He could be at home.

-Impossibility (negative only)

Example : That could not be true !

2. Should,is past form of "shall".

It is used to express :

-Advisability (nasehat,saran)

Example : You should study tonight.

-90% certainty (kebenaran 90%)

Example : She should do well on the test. (future only,not present)

3. Would,is past form of "will".

-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.”

4. Might,is past form of "may".

-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 : 

Dimas : “Might I borrow your book?”

Vera : “Yes, of course.”