Passive Modals helps you communicate about rules, possibilities, recommendations and deductions focused on the receiver. Start with the meaning, notice the pattern, and then use it in complete sentences.
By the end of this lesson, you can
- I can combine modal meanings with passive constructions.
- Recognise and build the form: modal + be + past participle; modal + have been + past participle.
- Use the pattern accurately in a meaningful sentence.
Meaning and use
Use Passive Modals for rules, possibilities, recommendations and deductions focused on the receiver. Always read the whole situation before choosing the form: grammar expresses a meaning, not only a pattern.
Seat belts must be worn at all times.
A passive obligation uses 'must be + past participle'.
The problem can be solved in several ways.
A passive ability or possibility uses 'can be + past participle'.
This form should be submitted by Friday.
A passive recommendation uses 'should be + past participle'.
modal + be + past participle; modal + have been + past participleKeep this pattern visible while you study the examples. Then cover it and rebuild one example from memory.
Key rules to notice
These rules explain why the form is correct. Focus on the subject, auxiliary, verb form, word order and time or meaning clues.
- A passive obligation uses 'must be + past participle'.
- A passive ability or possibility uses 'can be + past participle'.
- A passive recommendation uses 'should be + past participle'.
- A passive possibility uses 'might be + past participle'.
- Passive prohibition uses 'mustn't be + past participle'.
Common mistakes
Not:Seat belts must wear at all times.
Use:Seat belts must be worn at all times.
A passive obligation uses 'must be + past participle'.
Not:The problem can solve in several ways.
Use:The problem can be solved in several ways.
A passive ability or possibility uses 'can be + past participle'.
Not:This form should submit by Friday.
Use:This form should be submitted by Friday.
A passive recommendation uses 'should be + past participle'.
Check before you practise
Complete each sentence mentally, then reveal the answer.
The meeting ____ because of the storm.
might be cancelled
A passive possibility uses 'might be + past participle'.
The files ____ without permission.
mustn't be copied
Passive prohibition uses 'mustn't be + past participle'.
The error ____ earlier.
could have been detected
A past passive possibility uses 'could have been + past participle'.