can / could
A1can / could + base verb„Can” is ability or possibility now; „could” is past ability or a softer, less certain form.
Examples
- I can swim.PLUmiem pływać.
- Could you help me?PLMógłbyś mi pomóc?polite request
06
Modal verbs
Little words that add a shade: possibility, obligation, advice, politeness. Always a base verb after them.
must / have to
A2must / have to + base verbBoth express obligation. Mind the negatives: „mustn't” = forbidden, „don't have to” = not necessary.
Examples
- You must try this.PLMusisz tego spróbować.
- I have to work tomorrow.PLMuszę jutro pracować.
- You don't have to come.PLNie musisz przychodzić.no obligation — not forbidden
Common mistake
I must to go now.I must go now.
A modal verb (must, can, should) is followed by the bare infinitive — no „to”: „I must go”, not „I must to go”.
should
A2should + base verbAdvice or a suggestion — „you should”. Softer than „must”.
Examples
- You should see a doctor.PLPowinieneś iść do lekarza.
- We should leave soon.PLPowinniśmy niedługo wyjść.
may / might
A2may / might + base verbPossibility that isn't certain („maybe”). „May” can also be polite permission.
Examples
- It may rain later.PLMoże później padać.
- She might be at home.PLMoże być w domu.
- May I come in?PLCzy mogę wejść?polite permission
would
B1would + base verbHypothetical situations, polite offers and requests, and repeated past actions.
Examples
- I would love to come.PLChętnie bym przyszedł.
- Would you like some tea?PLNapijesz się herbaty?polite offer
- When we were kids, we would play outside.PLGdy byliśmy dziećmi, bawiliśmy się na dworze.repeated past