Modals of ability | Exercise with answers

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Choose the right answer to express ability:

1 – My grandmother _______ seven languages.

might be able to speak
could speak
could have spoken
might have been able to speak

2 – Even thought I was tired, I _______ enjoy the party.

might
could
was able to
had to

3 – Japan _______ preserve its culture, despite its contact with foreign influences

could
managed to
might
had to

4 – I was so excited that I _______ sleep.

wouldn’t
didn’t
might not
couldn’t

5 – He _______ read and write Chinese.

 can
 may
could
 is able to

6 – When ______ I see you next time?

 can
 may
could
 has to

7 –  I _______ afford one, but not both.

 can
 may
could
 has to

8 – Tom ________ drive a car soon.

 can
will be able to
could
will have to

9 – Tina ________ swim well.

 can
 should
could
 would

10 – I _________ work as a chef sometime in the future, as long as I take cooking lessons.

will be able to
 can
could
will have to

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ANSWERS

1. My grandmother could speak seven languages.
2. Even thought I was tired, I was able to enjoy the party.
3. Japan managed to preserve its culture, despite its contact with foreign influences.
4. I was so excited that I couldn’t sleep
5. He can read and write Chinese.
6. When can I see you next time?
7.  I can afford one, but not both.
8. Tom will be able to drive a car soon.
9. Tina can swim well.
10. I will be able to work as a chef sometime in the future, as long as I take cooking lessons.

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