FORMING PASSIVE WITH MODALS

FORMING PASSIVE WITH MODALS

 

Affirmative Form	Object + may, must, can, could, ought to, should + be + verb3
Question Form	Must, may, can, should, might + object + be + verb3 (past participle)

Something must / can / should... be done by someone at sometime.

Active : Our English teacher may give an exam today.
Passive: An exam may be given by our English teacher today.

Active : Thomas has written many books.
Passive: Many books have been written by Thomas.

Active : Do you have to pay the bill before leaving the restaurant?
Passive: the bill have to be paid before leaving the restaurant?

Active : Juan can give them some information about the job.
Passive: Some information can be given about the job by Juan.
Passive2: They can be given some information about the JOB by Juan.

Active : You must obey the traffic rules.
Passive: The traffic rules must be obeyed.

Quick Exercise

Put the following sentences into passive voice. (Modals)

1.   We may ask him a few questions. 

     =   A few questions may be asked by him.

2.   I can manage a motor car.

      =  A motor car can be managed.

3.   You must inquire the way.

     = The way must be inquired.

4.   He might give you a chance.

      = A chance might be given.

5.   I could show you his house if you would permit me.

       = His house can be shown to you if you would permit me.

6.   I should enjoy a sea-voyage

      = A sea-voyage should be enjoyed