Modal Perfects •
express speculations, conclusions or suppositions about past events.
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can be used in passive voice, using "BEEN" between "have" and "past participle" They must have delivered that package last night after I left. That package must have been delivered last night after I left.
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COULD HAVE + PAST PARTICIPLE (possibility / opportunity not done) I could have sent a car, but I was too busy.(I didn´t do it)
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COULDN´T HAVE + PAST PARTICIPLE (disbelief) She couldn´t have said those words. She never speaks like that.(I can´t believe it)
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MAY / MIGHT HAVE + PAST PARTICIPLE (guess) She may/ might have forgotten about the meeting.(Perhaps she forgot about the meeting).
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MUST HAVE + PAST PARTICIPLE (logical conclusion) Peter didn´t come to school. He must have been ill.
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SHOULD HAVE + PAST PARTICIPLE (criticism) You should have seen a dentist.Now you probably need extensive treatment.
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SHOULDN´T HAVE + PAST PARTICIPLE (criticism) He shouldn´t have been so rude.
• Write the following sentences using the modal perfects: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
They might sell the car. It could be Jenny on the phone. You shouldn´t use my computer. She must be tired. This should be taken away. They may come later.
• Rewrite the following sentences without changing the meaning of the original sentence.Use modals. 1. Taking the book without permission was the wrong thing to do . _________________________________________________________________ 2. He isn´t here. Perhaps he went home. __________________________________________________________________ 3. I didn´´t try to pass the test, although it wasn´t difficult. _____________________________________________________, but I didn´t try. 4. I suppose he bought you a birthday gift. ______________________________________________________________ 5. Chewing gum is forbidden in class (chew) _____________________________________________ 6. I suggest you get a second opinion. ______________________________________________ 7. Perhaps John is at school now. (be) ______________________________________________