Master Grammar Logo

Master English Grammar

Passive Voice with Modals

Learn how to use modals in passive voice. Understand sentences like The project must be completed..

What Is Passive Voice with Modals?

Passive voice can also be used with modals like 'must', 'should', 'can', 'might', etc. The structure is 'modal + be + past participle' to express necessity, possibility, ability, or permission.

Why Is This Important?

Using modals in passive voice allows you to express actions that are required, possible, or permitted in a way that emphasizes the action or result, rather than the doer.

How to Use Passive Voice with Modals

To form passive voice with modals, we use the modal verb + 'be' + past participle. The modal verb determines the meaning of the sentence. For example: 'The project must be completed.'

Common Examples

The project must be completed. (Necessity)
The house can be rented by anyone. (Possibility)
The task should be finished by tomorrow. (Recommendation)

Key Points

  • Use modals for necessity, possibility, and permission
    • The project must be completed before the deadline. (Necessity)
    • The house can be rented by anyone. (Possibility)
  • Use 'must be' for something required
    • The document must be signed by tomorrow.
    • The task must be completed before 5 PM.
  • Use 'should be' for recommendations or advice
    • The work should be finished by the end of the week.
    • The meeting should be scheduled at 9 AM.

Rules for Using Passive Voice with Modals

  • Use 'must be' to express necessity

    • The project must be completed by Friday.
    • The documents must be signed before the meeting.

  • Use 'can be' to express possibility

    • The house can be rented by anyone.
    • The task can be finished by the team.

  • Use 'should be' to express recommendations

    • The report should be submitted by 3 PM.
    • The test should be taken after studying.

  • Special Cases & Exceptions:

    When using modals in passive voice, ensure the verb following the modal is always in its past participle form.

  • The use of 'be' after modals in passive voice is essential. Don't omit 'be' when using modals with passive constructions.

    • Correct: The project must be completed by tomorrow.
    • Incorrect: The project must completed by tomorrow.
ExampleTenseUse
The project must be completed.PresentNecessity expressed using 'must be'
The house can be rented by anyone.PresentPossibility expressed using 'can be'
The work should be finished by the deadline.PresentRecommendation expressed using 'should be'

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with the creators of these videos. These are publicly available resources used to provide additional information on the topic.