Modals in the Past Form


Modal auxiliaries atau auxiliary verbs adalah kata kerja bantu yang mempunyai arti berbeda-beda dan digunakan untuk mengindikasikan suatu hal yang potensial atau yang tidak pasti

Modals in the past are :
ღ Could.
ღ Might.
ღ Would.
ღ Should.

The formula of Modals in the past form :

1. COULD + VERB BASE.
ღ 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.”

ღ 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.
ღ 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.”

ღ 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.”

ღ To express polite request.

Example :

Mr. Willy : “Would you mind posting the letter?”
Reva : “No, not at all.”

3. SHOULD + VERB BASE.
ღ 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.
ღ To tell possibilities

Example :

Dina : “Why is Riko taking the bus to get home?”
Rita : “He might get a flat time.”

ღ To express polite request.

Example :

Dimas : “Might I borrow your book?”
Vera : “Yes, of course.”