Chapter 2.

Mooring
Objectives: After studying the topic in the course book and seminar the students should be able
to: recognise and use correctly the words and expressions related to mooring; translate a text on
mooring giving the correct Romanian equivalents to the words and expressions related to the
topic in question; construct a dialogue between the master of the ship and the pilot about the
conditions of mooring.
1.
Ships make fast to a wharf either alongside or stern to. When approaching a berth ships
must proceed at slow speed. On deck, heaving lines and mooring ropes, as well we fenders,
should be ready for use. The anchors must be ready to let go.
At an appropriate distance from the berth the engine is stopped and the ships headway is
used to bring her alongside the wharf. This headway should be just enough to keep the ship
moving ahead without losing steerage way.
If a ship has too much headway, it should be stopped by backing the ship with the engine
or by letting the anchor go. As a matter of fact, only the off-shore anchor is dropped and then a
heaving line is passed ashore. A head-rope, a bow spring and two breast lines are run out from the
ship and secured to bollards ashore.
Working on these lines, as well as on the stern rope and stern spring which are also run
out in due time, the ship is hove into her berth and made fast.
After the ship is secured in her berth, rat-guards should be placed on all the lines. For
permanent moorings wire ropes are preferred to ordinary fiber ropes.
All the mooring lines should be constantly watched, as the change of weather or rise and
fall of tide can make the lines either too taut or too slack and this will necessitate from time to
time veering them in or out. In stormy weather the ships secured in their berths usually have to
double up fore and aft.
Dialogue 1
C: Is taking a tug compulsory here?
P: No, it is not compulsory, but it is advisable, and I shall tell you why. There are several strong
currents in the harbour and as there is a lot of traffic now, it is pretty difficult to manoeuvre in
congested waters.
C: Will the tug take us only into the port or will she bring the ship alongside the wharf?
P: Yes, the tug will work the ship into her berth.
C: At what berth shall we moor?
P: We shall moor at berth No. 17
C: We will need a 15 ton crane to discharge heavy-lifts.
P: Your agent must have been informed about it as there is a 15ton crane at the berth.
C: Thats good. Which side shall we make a landing?
P: We will make a starboard side landing.
Dialogue 2
C: So, where are we going to berth?
P: Do you see. Sir, a vacant place between the two big tankers tied up stern to?
C: Do you mean those two big tankers over there with streamlined funnels?

P: Yes, thats what I mean, and thats where we should now steer for.
C: There isnt too much space there anyhow, but still enough to get the ship moored alongside.
What is the depth alongside the berth?
P: The depth is five fathoms, Sir.
C: Is the bottom even there?
P: No, there must be a little hump some 30 yards from the wharf, as the bottom was recently
dredged.
C: Which side shall we go alongside?
P: We will go along starboard side.
C: Shall we drop an anchor?
P: Yes, Sir. We shall drop the port anchor.
Dialogue 3
P: The ship has too much headway. Sir, I think its time to back her.
C: Slow astern! Helm a-port! You Know, she swings her bow to starboard on backing.
P: I see, Now, Sir, give her a little swing to port. Steady so! Is your port anchor ready?
C: The port anchor is ready. Stand by the port anchor.
P: Let go the port anchor, Sir.
C: Let go the port anchor! Veer out the cable handsomly! Send on shore the bow spring
P: Thats right, Sir. We must get the bow in first.
C: Yes, now we can heave the ship alongside.
P: I think, Sir, you must now steer the stern a little off the pier.
C: Good. I think Ill start heaving the bow alongside with the bow lines.
2. Vocabulary
Words and expressions
To make fast = a se laga la cheu
To moor = a se lega, a acosta, a amara, a afurca
Wharf = cheu, debarcader
Fender = aparatoare, tranchet
To let go = a mola, a fundarisi (ancora)
Steerage way = viteza de guvernare, capacitate de a mai mentine drumul
Head rope/line = parama de legare prova
Bow spring/backspring forward = spring prova
Breast line = traversa
To heave, hove, hove = a aduce nava intr-o pozitie, a trage
Taut = intins
Slack = slabit
To veer in/out = a vira
To make fast alongside = a acosta/lega cu bordul
To make fast stern to = a acosta/lega cu pupa
To get moored = a acosta, a se lega
To get berthed/tied up = a aduce nava la cheu
To bring the ship alongside the quay/to work the ship into her berth = a aduce nava la cheu
To make a starboard/port landing/to get alongside starboard/port side to = a acosta (a se lega) cu
tribordul/babordul
To run out a line = a da o legatura
It is advisable = este recomandabil

To swing the bow to starboard/port = a gira, a aduce prova la dreapta/stinga

To sheer the stern from the quay = a abate pupa de la cheu
To double up fore and aft = a da dublin la prova si pupa.
3. Standard Marine Communication Phrases
3.1. Berthing
We will berth port/starboard side alongside = Vom acosta cu bordul babord/tribord
We will moor to (a ) buoy(s) ahead and astern = Ne vom lega la (o) geamandura/geamanduri in
prova si in pupa.
We will moor alongside = Vom acosta cu bordul
We will moor to dolphins = Ne vom lega la piloti
Send out(head/stern/breast) lines = Dati parimeprova/pupa/traversa
Send outspring(s) forward/aft = Datispring(uri) prova/pupa
We
will
useshore
(head/stern/breast)
lines/wires
=
Vom
folosi
parime/sirme/prova/pupa/traverse de la mol (cheu)
Do you have tension winches? = Aveti vinciuri de intindere?
Have heaving lines ready forward and aft = Pregatiti bandule la prova si pupa
Send a (heaving/head/stern/breast) line ashore = Dati o parima/bandula/prova/pupa/tracersa la
cheu
Have a messenger line ready = Pregatiti o parima intermediara
Use the centre/panama lead forward/aft = Folositi nara centrala/panama din prova/pupa
Use the bow lead = Folositi nara din centru
Use the port/starboard quarter lead = Folositi nara din pupa babord./tribord.
Heave online(s)/spring(s) = Virati parima/parimele/springul/springurile
Pick
up
the
slack
on
theline(s)/spring(s)
=
Luati
din
banda
parimei/parimelor/springului/springurilor
Heave away = virati
Stop heaving = Stop virarea
Slack awayline(s)/spring(s) = Filati parima/parimele/springul/springurile
Stop slackingline(s)/spring(s) = Stop filarea parimei/parimelor/springului/springurilor
Hold on line(s)/spring(s)= Tine parima/parimele/springul/springurile
Heave in easy = Vira usor
Heave alongside = Trageti pe parime de-a lungul cheiului
Keep lines tight = Tine parimele intinse
Do not break the lines = Nu rupe parimele
Report the forward/aft distance to = Raporteaza distantaprova/pupa la
We have to movemetres ahead/astern = Trebuie sa ne deplasammetri in prova/pupa
We are in position = Suntem in pozitie
3.2. Unberthing
Is/are the engine(s) ready? = Este/sunt motorul/motoarele gata?
How long does it take to have the engine(s) ready? = Cit dureaza pregatirea
motorului/motoarelor?
It takesminutes (to have the engine9s) ready) = Dureazaminute pentru pregatirea
motorului/motoarelor
Are you ready to get underway? = Sunteti gata de mars?
Prepare to let go. Pregatiti de molat

Single upline(s) andsprings forward and aft = Reduceti parime/parimelesi

springul/springurileprova si pupa.
Slack away (head/stern/breast) line = Filati parima/prova/pupa/traversa
Slack away (forward/aft) spring = Fila springul prova/pupa
Heave on (head/stern) line = Vira parima prova/pupa
Heave on (head/stern) spring = Vira springul prova/pupa
Let go everything forward/aft = Mola toate parimele la prova/pupa
Let go (head/stern) line = Mola parima.prova/pupa
Let go towing line = Mola parima de remorcaj
Let go spring = Mola springul
Keep someone forward to stand by the anchor = Tineti pe cineva in prova sa pregateasca ancora
3.3.Vocabulary in context
The Pastoria is coming up the river on the flood tide. Her berth is on her starboard side, and six
cables ahead. The Chief officer is on the forecastle and is giving the boatswain orders.
CO: Anchors are clear; got the heaving lines, fenders and mooring ropes ready, boatswain?
B : Yes, Sir.
CO: The Captain is going to take her round, now.
The next thing, after seeing that the equipment is ready, is to turn the ship round and stem the
tide. We are now a little way past our berth and Captain Jones is doing this.
C: Hard-a-starboard.Stop her.Full ahead.
H: Hard-a-starboard,Sir.
3rd O:Full ahead, Sir.
C:Midship. Stop her.Full astern.
H:Midship
3rd O:Full astern, Sir.
C: Stop her.Port a bit.
3rd O: Stop her,Sir.
H:Port a bit.
The Pastoria was turned around by this manoeuvre. Now she is stemming the tide.
C: Slow ahead. Steady as you go.
3rd O: Slow ahead, Sir.
H: Steady as you go, Sir.
The ship is now approaching the berth against the tide, and Captain Jones has given us a slight
cant towards it. On the forecastle, the chief officer says:
CO: Heaving line ready? Bend on the head rope. Now pay her out.
The shore party makes her head rope fast.
C: Stop her.
3rd O: Stop her, Sir.

Now the weight comes on the head rope and the ship is dropping alongside. On the stern of the
Pastoria the Second officer is in charge.He says:
C: Make fast your stern rope.
Stern rope, breast ropes and spring are now led ashore and made fast. On the bridge, the captain
says:
C: Ring Finished with the engine, Third.
3rd O: Finished with the engines, Sir.
C: Very good. Helmsman, finished with the wheel.
H: Finished with the wheel, Sir.
3.3.1.Vocabulary and expressions
To come up the river = a naviga in amonte
Flood tide = perioada de flux
Berth = dana
To stem the tide = a naviga contra mareei
To give a slight cant = a aduce usor
Heaving line = bandula
To bend on = a lega
To pay out = a fila
Shore party = echipa de la cheu
Now the weight comes on the head rope = acum parama prova fiind solicitata
The ship is dropping alongside = nava vine prea repede la cheu
Make fast your stern rope = voltati parama pupa
Let ashore = date (paramele) la cheu
4. Grammar : Modal verbs-General
The modal auxiliary verbs or modal verbs are can, could, may, might, will, would, shall,
should, ought to, must, need and dare.
4.1.Use
We use modal verbs to talk about, for example, possibility, willingness, ability, obligation,
certainty and permission.
e.g. It might rain. (possibility)
Will you help me? (willingness)
Can she swim? (ability)
You must be home by 11 oclock. (obligation)
You havent eaten all day. You must be hungry. (certainty)
May I borrow your car? (permission)
4.1.2.Form
4.1.2.1.We form the affirmative by putting the modal verb between the subject and the full verb.
I can swim

We should go now.
Modal verbs take the same form in all persons. There is no-s ending in the third person singular.
She can swim.
He should go now.
After all modal verbs (except ought) we use the infinitive without to e.g. swim, go etc.
After ought we use to + infinitive e.g. to swim, to go etc.
4.1.2.2.We form the negative by putting nt/not after the modal verb.
e.g. She cant swim
We shouldt go.
It might not rain.
We form questions by inverting the subject and the modal verb. Compare:
e.g. She can swim.- Can she swim?
We should go Should we go?
Note that we do not use do in questions and negatives.
4.1.2.3.We can use the structure modal verb+be+-ing
e.g. Its getting late. We really must be going now.
4.1.2.4.We sometimes use expressions such as be able to, be allowed to and have to instead of
modal verbs. These expressions give us certain meanings and forms which are not possible
with modal verbs.
e.g. Id like to be able to play the piano.(Can has no infinitive)
She had to go to the doctors yesterday. (Must is not used to talk about the past)
4.1.2.5.When we talk about the past, we can use modal verb + have = past participle. We use this
structure to talk about things that possibly happened or things that did not happen.
e.g. Peter is late. He may have missed his train( Perhaps he missed/has missed his train)
I feel really tired today. I should have gone to bed earlier last night.( But I did not go to
bed very early last night.)
4.2. Ability:can. Could, be able to
4.2.1. Can
We use can to talk about ability. The negative of can is cannot(cant)
e.g. Can you swim?
He can play the guitar
I cant open this bottle.
Can you meet me tomorrow evening?

We can use be able to instead of can e.g. Are you able to swim? (but can is more common)
4.2.2. Could and was/were able to
4.2.2.1.We can use could to say that someone had the general ability to do something in the past.
e.g. I could swim when I was 4 years old.
My sister could talk when she was 15 months old.
We also use was/were able to with this meaning.
e.g. I was able to swim when I was 4 years old.
4.2.2.2.But when we want to say that someone had the ability to do something, and that they did
it in a particular situation, we must use was/were able to (could is not possible)
e.g. Even though Id hurt my led, I was able to swim back to the boat.
The manager wasnt in the office for very long, but we were able to speak to him for a
few minutes.
We can use managed to (+ infinitive) or succeeded in (+ -ing form) instead of was/were able to in
this meaning.
e.g. Even though Id hurt my leg, I managed to swim back to the boat/ I succeeded in
swimming back to the boat.
We normally use managed to or succeeded in when the action was difficult to do.
4.2.2.3.There is an exception with the verbs of perception see, hear, smell, taste, feel, and some
verbs of thinking e.g. understand, remember. We use could with these verbs when we actually did
these things in particular situations.
e.g. We could see a man in the garden.
I could hear a noise outside my bedroom door
4.2.2.4.We use could not (couldnt) for both general ability and particular situations.
e.g. My grandmother couldnt dance.
He tried very hard, but he couldnt swim back to the boat.
4.2.3. Could have
We use could have + past participle to say that someone had the ability or the opportunity to
do something in the past but did not do it.
e.g.You could have helped me. Why didnt you?
I could have gone to China on holiday last year, but I decided not to.
4.2.4. Expressing ability in other forms:be able to
Can has no infinitive, -ing form or participles. So, when necessary. we make these forms with
be able to.
e.g. Id like to be able to play the piano.
In the future, people will be able to live on other planets.
She enjoys being able to speak foreign languages.
Ive been able to drive since I was 18.

4.3. Permission: can, could, may, might, be allowed to

4.3.1. Asking for permission
e.g. Can I borrow your dictionary?
Could I ask you a personal question?
May I make a suggestion?
Could is less direct and more polite than can hare. May is more formal than can and could, but
can and could are more common.
We can also use might to ask for permission in a less direct, more formal style.
Might I make a suggestion?
4.3.2. Giving permission
When we give permission, we use can or may 9but not could or might)
e.g. Can I use your pen for a moment? Yes, of course you can.
You can borrow my camera if you want to.
Could I make a suggestion? Of course you may.
4.3..3. Talking about permission
When we talk about things that are already permitted or not permitted (e.g. when there is a law or
a rule), we use can(t) or be (not) allowed.
e.g.You cant smoke/arent allowed to smoke in this room.
You can/are allowed to get married in Britain when you are 16.(Thats the law)
The children normally go to bed at 9 oclock, but they can stay up/are allowed to
stay up later on Saturdays. (Their parents have decided this.)
4.3.4. Could and was/were allowed to
4.3.4.1.We use could to say that we had general permission to do something in the past.
e.g. When I was 18, I could borrow my parents car whenever I wanted to.
When I was 18, I was allowed to borrow my parents car whenever I wanted to.
4.3.4.2.But when we want to say that someone had permission to do something and they did it in
a particular past situation, we must use was/were allowed to (could is not possible)
e.g. I was allowed to borrow my parents car last night.( Not: I could borrow)
4.4. Obligation and necessity (1); must, have to, have got to
4.4.1. Must and have to
4.4.1.1.We use both must and have to to express obligation or necessity, but there is sometimes a
difference between them:

We normally use must when the authority comes from the speaker. You must be home by 10
oclock. (I insist). Ive got a terrible pain in my back. I must go and see the doctor. (I think it is
necessary). You must drive carefully. (I insist).
We normally use have to when the authority comes from outside the speaker. I have to be home
by 10 oclock.(My parents insist) I have to go and see the doctor at 9.00 tomorrow morning. (I
have got an appointment.) you have to drive on the left in Britain.(That is the law)
4.4.1.2.We only use must (+infinitive) to talk about the present and the future. When we talk
about past obligation or necessity, we use had to.
e.g. I had to work late yesterday.
4.4.1.3.Must has no infinitive, -ing form or participles. So, when necessary, we make these forms
with have to.
e.g. Ill have to work late tomorrow.
He hates having to get up early.
Shes had to work hard all her life.
Note that in questions and negatives with have to we use do/does in the present simple and
did in the past simple.
e.g. What time do you have to start work?
We dont have to hurry. Weve got plenty of time.
Did you have to walk home last night?
4.4.2.Have got to
We often use have got to instead of have to to talk about obligation and necessity. Have got to is
more informal.
e.g. I have to hurry.
Do you have to go?

Ive got to hurry.

Have you got to go?

We normally use have to, not have got to, for things that happen repeatedly, especially when we
use one-word adverbs of frequency e.g. always, often. Compare:
e.g. I always have to work late on Wednesday evenings

Ive got to work late this

evening.
Do you often have to get up early?
Have you got to get up early
tomorrow?
We use got mostly in the present. To talk about the past, we normally use had to, not had got to.
e.g. I had to work late last night.
4.5. Obligation and necessity (2): mustnt, dont have to, dont need to, havent got to,
neednt
4.5.1.Compare mustnt and dont have to
Annie has got a bad cold. You mustnt get up today.
Sally is on holiday. I dont have to get up today.
We use mustnt when there is an obligation not to do something.

e.g. You mustnt get up today.(=Do not get up.)

You mustnt wash that sweater. It has to be dry-cleaned(=Do not wash it.)
We use dont have to when it is not necessary to do something.
e.g. I dont have to get up today. (=It is not necessary to get up)
You dont have to wash that shirt. It isnt dirty.(=It is not necessary to wash it.)
4.5.2.We can also use dont need to, havent got to or neednt to to say that it is not necessary to
do something.
e.g. I dont need to get up today.
I havent got to get up today.
I neednt get up today
Note that we often use neednt when the speaker gives someone permission not to do something.
e.g. You neednt pay me back the money until next week. (= I give you permission not to pay
me back the money until then.)
4.6. Neednt have and didnt need to
4.6.1.Neednt have + past participle says that someone did something, but it was not necessary- it
was a waste of time.
e.g. I neednt have made so much food for the party. Nobody was very hungry. (= it was
not necessary to make so much food, but I did,)
I neednt have told Kate what happened. She already knew. (=It was not necessary to tell
Kate, but I did)
4.6.2.Didnt need to + infinitive says that something was not necessary (but it does not say if
someone did it or not).
e.g. She neednt have waited. (=It was not necessary to wait, but she did.)
She didnt need to wait.(=It was not necessary to wait: we dont know if she did or not.)
They neednt have worried. (=It was not necessary to worry, but they did.)
They didnt need to worry.(=It was not necessary to worry; we dont know if they did or
not)
4.6.3.When we use didnt need to, it often means that someone did not do something (because it
was not necessary).
e.g. I didnt need to unlock the door because it was already unlocked.
I didnt need to write to you so I phoned you instead.
But we can also use didnt need to (with stress on need) when something was not necessary,
but someone did it.
e.g. I didnt need to write to you, but I wrote to you anyway.

4.7. Obligation and advice: should, ought to, had better, be supposed to, shall
4.7.1.Should and ought to
4.7.1.1.We can use both Should and ought to talk about obligation and duty, to ask for and give
advice, and , in general, to say what is right or good.
e.g. You should learn to swim/You ought to learn to swim.
You shouldnt tell lies./You oughtnt to tell lies.
What do you think I should do?/What do you think I ought to do?
Should and ought to are very similar in meaning, but we often prefer ought to to talk about
authority which comes from outside the speaker e.g. from laws or rules
Note that after should, we use the infinitive without to e.g. learn, tell, but after ought we use
to+infinitive e.g. to learn, to tell.
4.7.1.2.We use should have/ought to have + past participle to say that someone did the wrong
thing in the past.
e.g. I should have posted this letter yesterday, but I forgot. (I did not post it)
I am really tired this morning. I shouldt have stayed up so late last night.(I stayed up
late)
Havent you finished your homework yet? You ought to have done it last night. (You
did not do it)
4.7.2Had better
Had better+ infinitive without to expresses a strong recommendation in a particular
situation.
e.g. Im going to an interview tomorrow. Id better iron my shirt.
Its going to be cold tonight. Wed better turn on the heating.
We always use had not have with better in this structure, but the meaning is present or
future, not past
We form the negative with had better not.
e.g. Wed better not be late.
Had better often suggests a kind of threat or warning, and is stronger than should or ought
to.
4.7.3.Be + supposed to
We can use supposed to to talk about what people are expected to do because of an
arrangement, a rule, or a duty.
e.g. Youre supposed to start work at 8.00 every morning.
Im supposed to see Maria this afternoon.
We use not supposed to to express prohibitions.
e.g. You know youre not supposed to eat in the classroom.

There is often a difference between what is supposed to happen and what really happens.
e.g. Im supposed to see Maria this afternoon, but Im not going to have enough time.
Put those sweets away! You know youre not supposed to eat in the classroom.
He was supposed to phone me yesterday, but he didnt.
4.7.4.Shall
We can use shall I? When we want to know someones opinion, or when we want advice or
instructions.
e.g. Ive missed my last bus. What shall I do ?
Im not sure what to do. Shall I apply for the job or not?
How long shall I cook this spaghetti?
4.8.. Possibility: may, might, could
4.8.1. Present and future possibility
4.8.1.1.We use may, might and could to talk about present or future possibility.
e.g. Theres someone at the door. It may be Sarah. (=perhaps it is Sarah)
We arent sure what we are going to do tomorrow. We might go to the beach.
(=Perhaps we will go to the beach.)
Wheres Simon? He could be in the living room. (=Perhaps he is in the living
room.)
Might is normally a little less sure than may. Could is normally less sure than may or
might.
+ + + may
+ + might
+ could
4.8.1.2.We use the negatives may not and might not (mightnt) with this meaning, but not could
not.
e.g. Simon may not be in the living room(=Perhaps he is not in the living room.)
We might not go to the beach. (=Perhaps we will not go to the beach.)
4.8.1.3.Note the form: may/might/could + be + -ing
E.g. They may be having dinner at the moment. (Perhaps they are having dinner.)
4.8.2. Possibility in the past
4.8.2.1.We can use may/might/could + have+past participle to talk about possibility in the past
e.g. Where was sally last night? I think she may have been at the cinema.(=I think
perhaps she was at the cinema.)
Peter is late. He might have missed his train.(=Perhaps he missed/has
missed his train.)
I cant find my wallet anywhere. You could have left it at home. (Perhaps
you left/have left it at home.)
She walked straight past me without saying hello. She might not have seen
you.(=perhaps she didnt see you.)

4.8.2.2.We also use could and might (but not may) with have + past participle to say that
something was possible in the past but did not happen
e.g. I forgot to lock my car last night. You were very lucky. Someone could have
stolen it
You were stupid to try to climb that tree. You might have killed yourself.
4.9.Deduction: must, cant
4.9.1.Must, cant
4.9.1.1.We use must in deductions to say that we are sure about something.
E.g. Its not very warm and youre not wearing a coat. You must be cold. (= I am sure
that you are cold.)
Mrs Woods must know London very well. She has lived there all her life. (=I am
sure that she knows London very well.)
4.9.1.2.We use cant (not mustnt) as the negative of must in this meaning. We use cant in
deductions to say that something is impossible.
e.g. Peter was here a moment ago, so he cant be far away. (=It is impossible that he is
far away.)
Annie cant be asleep. Theres a light on in her bedroom. (=It is impossible that
she is asleep)
4.9.1.3.Note the form: must/cant + be + -ing
e.g. Youve been working hard all day. You must be feeling tired. ( I am sure that you
are feeling tired.)
Simon has bought two tickets for the concert, so he cant be going on his own. (=It is
impossible that he is going on his own.)
4.9.1.4.We also use can in questions about possibility.
e.g. The telephone is ringing. Who can that be?
Sally is late. Where can she be?
4.9.2. Must haveand cant have
4.9.2.1.We use must/cant + have+ past participle for deductions about the past.
e.g. Those shoes you bought are very nice. They must have been expensive. (=I am sure
that they were expensive.)
You cant /couldnt have been at the swimming pool yesterday! The swimming
pool was closed all day yesterday! (=It is impossible that you were at the swimming
pool!)
4.9.2.2.We use can have and could havein questions about past possibility.
e.g. Where can they have gone ?
Sally is very late. What could have happened to her?

4.10. Requests: can, could, may, will, would

4.101.Asking for something
We can ask for things with can, could and may.
e.g. Can I have a glass of water, please?
Could I have the bill please?
May I have some more coffee?
Could is less direct and more polite than can here: may is more formal than can/could.
4.10.2.Asking for permission
We also use can, could and may to ask for permission.
e.g. Can I borrow your dictionary?
Could I ask you a personal question?
May I have a look at your newspaper?
4.10.3.Asking someone to do something
4.10.3.1. We often use can you? (=are you able to?) to ask someone to do something for us.
e.g. Can you post this letter for me?
Can you switch on the light, please?
We use could as a less definite, more polite form of can in this meaning.
e.g. Could you pass me the newspaper please?
Could you give me some advice?
4.10.3.2.We also use will you? (=are you willing to?)to ask someone to do something.
e.g. Will you switch on the light, please?
We use would as a less definite, more polite form of will in this meaning.
e.g. Would you pass this letter for me?
The phone is ringing. Would you answer it?
4.10.3.3. We also use would with the verb mind 9=object to or dislike) to make polite
requests.
e.g. Would you mind switching on the light?
4.10..3.4. We sometimes make requests by using would like as a polite way of saying what we
want.
e.g. Id like a glass of water, please.
Id like to ask you a personal question.
4.11. Offers: will, shall, can, could, would
4.11..1. We use will to say that we are willing to do something or to offer to do something.
e.g. Ill help you with your suitcase.
Ill lend you my bicycle if you want.
Are you hungry? Ill make you something to eat.
We also use will you? In offers and invitations.
e.g. What will you have to drink?
Will you have dinner with us?
4.11.2. We use shall I? (=do you want me to?) to offer to do something for someone.
e.g. Shall I help you?

Shall I open the door for you?

Shall I post this letter for you?
4.11.3. We also use can/could(=ability) to offer to do something for someone.
e.g. I can post this letter for you.
I could lend you some money if you want.
Sometimes when we use can or could to ask for permission, we are really offering to do
Something.
e.g. Can I make you something to eat?
Could I carry that bag for you?
In these uses, could is less direct and more polite than can.
4.11.4.We also use would with verbs such as like, prefer and rather to make polite offers and
invitations.
e.g. Would you like to go to a party on Saturday?
Would you like me to help you?
Would you prefer to stay in or go out this evening?
4.12. Suggestions: shall, lets, why dont we, how/what about, can, could
4.12.1.We use shall we? To ask for and make suggestions.
e.g. Where shall we go?
What time shall we leave?
Shall we stay at home?
Shall we play tennis tomorrow?
4.12.2. We can also make suggestions in these ways:
4.12.2.1.
e.g. Lets watch TV.
Lets go for a swim.
4.12.2.2.Why dont we(+infinitive without to)?
e.g. Why dont we go for a swim?
Why dont we play tennis?
4.12.2.3. How/What about (+-ing form/noun)?
e.g. How about playing tennis/a game of tennis?
4.12.3. We use can and could to suggest possible actions.
e.g. We can watch TV if you like.
We could go to the cinema tomorrow.
In this use, could is less direct and more polite than can.
4.13. Habits: used to, will, would
4.13.1. Used to
4.13.1.1. Use.
We use used to + infinitive to talk about past habits which are now finished.
e.g. Robert used to play football when he was younger, but he stopped playing 20 years ago.
(=Robert played football regularly in the past, but he does not play now.)
Kate used to go swimming a lot, but she never goes swimming now.
When I was a child, I used to suck my thumb.

We also use used to for past states and situations which are no longer true.
e.g. Robert used to be very slim when he was younger.
I used to live in London, but I moved in 1980.
We only use used to to talk about the past. When we talk about present habits or present states, we
use the present simple.
e.g. Robert never plays football now.
Kate goes sailing quite often nowadays.
I live in Manchester.
Robert is quite fat.
We do not use used to to say how long something happened.
e.g. I worked in Rome for six months.
4.13.1.2. Form
Used to + infinitive takes the same form in all persons.
I/You/He/She/It/We/You/They used to play football.
live in London.
be very slim.
The negative of used to is normally didnt use to (=did not use to)
I didnt use to live in London.
You didnt use to like classical music.
We also use never used to e.g. You never used to like classical music.
We normally form questions with diduse to?
e.g. Where did you use to live?
Did you use to like classical music?
4.13.2. Will and Would
4.13.2.1. we can use will to talk about someones typical behaviour or characteristic habits.
e.g. Simon loves music. Hell sit for hours listening to his stereo.
Kate is very kind. Shell always help people if she can.
We use would with the same meaning to talk about the past.
e.g. When I was a child my father would sometimes take me fishing.
My grandmother was very absent-minded. She would often buy something and then leave
the shop without it.
Will and Would are not stressed in this use.
4.13..2.2. If will or would are stressed (), it suggests criticism.
e.g. He `will slam the door when he comes in. It really makes me angry.
She borrowed my camera without asking. She `would do a thing like that. Shes always
borrowing things without asking.
4.13.2.3. Used to and would
When we talk about past habits, we can use used to or would.
e.g. When we were children, we used to/would play Cowboys and Indians together.
When I was a child, my elder brother used to/would take me to the cinema every Saturday
morning.
When we talk about past states, we can use used to, but not would.
e.g. My grandfather used to be a policeman.
I used to have a moustache, but I shaved it off.

5. Grammar Practice
1. Complete the sentences using can or could where possible. If can or could is not possible,
use a form of be able to.
Examples:
He has been living in France for 6 months. He can speak French very well now.
Ill be able to go shopping later today.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

When Robert was younger he---run quite fast.

Look! You---see the mountains from this window.
Kate---dance really well when she was a young girl.
How long have you---play the guitar?
Look! I---lift this chair with one hand!
Im sorry, but I wont---come to the party on Saturday.

2. Complete the sentences using could or was/were able to .Sometimes either form is
possible.
Example:
Simon could/was able to read music when he was 7.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

We---put out the fire before much damage was done.

My daughter---walk when she was only 11 months old.
I---finish all the work you wanted me to do yesterday.
---(you) speak French before you went to live in Paris? I---(not) speak it very well.
They were talking quite loudly. I---hear everything they said.

3. Robert Wells is 52 years old. Sometimes he feels that he has wasted his life.
Read about Robert. Replace the words in italics with could haveas in the example.
Example:
When Robert was 26 he had the chance to get married, but he decided not to.
When Robert was 26 he could have got married, but he decided not to.
1. Robert had the ability to go to university, but he didnt want to go.
2. He had the intelligence to pass his final exams at school, but he didnt take them.
3. A lot of people thought he had the ability to be a professional footballer when he was
younger, but he didnt try.
4. He had the opportunity to start his own business once, but he didnt want to
5. He had the chance to emigrate to Australia a few years ago, but he decided not to.
4. Complete the sentences using could or was/were allowed to
Example: I was allowed to see him for a few moments yesterday.
1.
2.
3.
4.

Andrew---leave school early yesterday because he wasnt feeling well.

Until the 19th century, people---travel freely between most countries without a passport.
Sues children---watch the film on TV last night.
Her son has to wear a uniform in his new school, but in his old school he---wear whatever he
liked.

5. ( I ) Mrs Woods isnt very well. The doctor is speaking to her, Complete what the doctor
says using must and the verbs drink, take, stay and continue. Use each verb only once.

Doctor: Well, Mrs Woods, your temperature is a little high, so you----in bed for the next few
days. You can eat whatever you like, but you---plenty of liquids. And Ill give you some
medicine. You---it three times a day after meals. And you ---to take it for the next ten days.
(ii) Now Mrs Woods is wxplaining the doctors instructions to Mr Woods. Complete
what Mrs Woods says using have to and the verbs drink, take, stay and continue.Use each
verb only once.
Mrs Woods: The doctor gave me some medicine. I---it three times a day after meals. And I---to
take it for the next ten days. Im not allowed to get up at the moment. I---in bed for the next few
days. Oh, and Im allowed to eat whatever I like, but I---plenty of liquids.
6. Complete the sentences using must or a form of have to. Sometimes two answers are
possible.
Example: I couldnt go to the party last night because I had to babysit for my sister.
I have to/must get up early tomorrow morning.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

You---get a visa to visit the United states.

Annie will---do her homework tomorrow.
Its getting very late. We---go now.
I---stay in bed yesterday because I wasn;t very well,
Mr Mason---wear glasses since he was a child.
I dont like---work at weekends.

7.Choose the correct form.

Example: Youve been late for work twice this week. You mustnt/neednt be late again.
(The right choice here is mustnt)
1. You mustnt/ dont have to open the door before the train stops. You could fall out.
2. We mustnt/ dont have to hurry. Weve got plenty of time.
3. We mustnt/ havent got to make any noise going into the house. Its very late and
everybody is asleep.
4. You mustnt/neednt tell Nicki about the party. Ive already told her.
5. You mustnt/dont need to phone the station about the time of the trains. Ive got a
timetable.
6. I mustnt/havent got to go now. I can stay a bit longer if you want me to.
8.Complete these sentences using the modal verbs in the box. Sometimes two answers
are possible.
Must

mustnt

can

cant

Examples: You neednt go any longer. You can go now.

We mustnt make a noise. We must be quiet.
You must move your car. You cant/mustnt park here.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

You mustnt leave the door unlocked. Youlock it.

You can only smoke in the canteen. You---smoke in this room.
We neednt do the washing up now. We---do it tomorrow.
We can stay a bit longer. We---go now.
You cant keep on using my tennis shoes. You---buy your own.

neednt

6. You can keep those magazines. You---give them back to me.

9. Complete the sentences using neednt have where possible. If neednt have is not
possible, use didnt need to.
Examples: Did you water the garden? Yes, but I neednt have done (do) it. Just after
Id finished it started to rain!
I didnt need to wake (wake) her up because she was awake before me.
1. She ---(get up) early last Saturday, so she stayed in bed until 10 oclock.
2. I didnt wear my coat when I went out. I---(wear) it. It wasnt cold.
3. He was very anxious before the exam, but he---(worry). It wasnt as difficult as hed
expected.
4. She---(pay) the man, but she gave him some money anyway.
5. She---(pay) the man, so she didnt give him any money.
6. Thank you very much for the flowers, but you really---(buy) them for me.
10. Complete the advice using should or ought to; find the advice for the problems
Example: 1. Ive lost my credit card.
You should report it to the credit card company immediately.
You ought to report it to the credit card company immediately.
PROBLEMS
ADVICE
1. Ive lost my credit card.
I think you/sell it
2. I cant wake up in the mornings.
Perhaps you/look for another job.
3.I,m bored with my job.
Dont you think you/apologize to them?
4. Ive got a terrible headache.
Perhaps you/buy a new alarm clock!
5. I was very rude to my parents.
You/report it to the credit card company
immediately.
6. My car keeps on breaking down.
Perhaps you/take some aspirin.
11. Make sentences using shoul(dnt)should(nt) haveor ought(nt) to haveand the
words in brackets.
Example: My car is always dirty. (I/clean/it more often.)
I should clean it more often./I ought to clean it more often.
1. You think your friend works too hard. You tell him/her:
(You/not work/so hard) (You/relax/more)
2. Your friend overslept this morning and was late for work. His boss said to him.
(You/buy/an alarm clock!)
3. Kate didnt feel well yesterday, but she went to work and now she feels really terrible.
( She/not go/to work yesterday). (She/stay/in bed).
4. Mr Woods walked straight out into the road without looking. He was nearly killed by a
bus.
( He/not walk/into the road without looking.) (He/look/first.)
12. Complete the sentences using had better and the verbs in the box.
Example: The phone is ringing. Youd better answer it.
Park

stay

hurry

answer

put out

be

not leave

1. This knife is very sharp. You ---careful when you use it.
2. Oh no! Look! Theres a No ParkingSign here. We---somewhere else.
3. Youre not very well. I think you---in bed today.

4. Were late.We--5. Theres a lot of crime in this area. We---any doors or windows unlocked.
6. The plane is just going to take off. You---that cigarette.
13. Complete the sentences using the correct form of be + supposed to and the verbs in
the box.
Example: Im on diet, so Im not supposed to eat cream cakes.
Arrive
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

not eat

go

not open

not park

have

What are you doing with your birthday presents? You---them until your birthday!
I---to work yesterday, but I couldnt because I was ill in bed.
You---your car here at any time.
We---in Manchester at 6 oclock this morning, but our plane was delayed.
Peter---a one-hour lunch break, but he sometimes takes a bit longer.

14. Complete each question using shall I and the most suitable verb in the box.
Example: How much money shall I get from the bank?
Paint
1.
2.
3.
4.

invite get

tell

put

Who---to my prty, do you think?

Where---all these dirty plates and glasses?
What do you think?---my parents what has happened?
What colour---my bedroom? Have you got any ideas?

15. Rephrase these sentences using the modal verbs in brackets.

Examples: Perhaps she is ill (may). She may be ill.
Perhaps they went out. (might)They might have gone out.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

Perhaps youre right. (could)

Perhaps shell win the race. (might)
Perhaps she forgot about the meeting. (may)
Perhaps they were asleep. (might)
Perhaps he doesnt know the address.(may)
Perhaps they left early. (could)
Perhaps he isnt coming now.(might)
Perhaps Ill see you tomorrow. (may)
Perhaps theyre going on holiday. (could)
Perhaps she didnt catch the bus.(may)

16. Complete the sentences using can or could and the verbs in the box. Use each verb
only once.
Grow

be

make

reach

live

survive

cross

Example: Tigers can be dangerous.

1. Elephants---for up to 70 years.
2. Temperatures near the South Pole---minus 43 degrees centigrade.

3.
4.
5.
6.

A hundred years ago ships---the Atlantic in 10 days.

Camels---for up to 17 weeks in the desert without water.
Dinosaurs---up to 5 metres long.
Anyone---mistakes.

17.Complete the sentences using should or ought to and the correct form of the verbs in
the box. Use each verb only once.
pass

be

win

not take

sell

arrive

receive

Example: Ive only got &15, but that should/ought to be enough. We wont need to buy
very much.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

You---my letter first thing in the morning. I posted it earlier today.

I was surprised Liverpool lost the football match. They ---easily.
I---my car easily. I only want & 950 for it and its in very good condition.
Andrew---the exams last week. He worked very hard for them.
How long will it take to drive to the park? Well, it---long. It isnt very far.
Im still waiting for the 7 oclock bus. It---half an hour ago.

18. Answer the questions in A using must or cant, give a reason from B
Example: 1. They cant be Greek. Theyre speaking Italian.
A

1. Are they Greek?

2. Is he ill?
3. Is the heating on?
4. Are they asleep?
5. Is she happy?
6. Is he a doctor?

Its very cold in here.

Hes too young.
Shes just passed her driving test.
Theyre speaking Italian.
Their bedroom lights are off.
Hes got a high temperature.

19. Rephrase the sentences using the correct form of the words in brackets.
Examples: Im sure she is in bed. (must) She must be in bed.
Well probably arrive before 11 oclock. (should) We should arrive before 11
oclock.
Perhaps he was ill.(may) He may have been ill.
Its impossible that they missed the plane. (cant) They cant have missed the
plane.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

Perhaps shell phone later, (might)

Ill probably be at home. (could)
Perhaps they went home.(could)
Its impossible that hes telling the truth. (cant)
Im sure youve heard the news. (must)
Perhaps I wont go out this evening. (may)
Its impossible that she saw us. (cant)
Im sure the bus has left. (must)
Perhaps he didnt apply for the job. (might)
Shell probably be here soon. (ought to)

20. Peter and Sally are trying to decide what to do this evening.
Complete the conversation using the words in the box. Use some words more than once.
Why dont we

Lets

shall we

How about

could

PETER: So, what shall we do this evening?

SALLY: Well, we havent got much money.---staying in and watching TV?
PETER: Oh, no! Im fed up with watching TV.
SALLY: ---go out for a drink, then. We can afford one drink each.
PETER: All right.Where---go?
SALLY: ---go to The Tropical Bar? They have really good music there.
PETER: Yes, but the drinks are very expensive.
SALLY: Thats true. Well, we---go to the pub on the coner.
PETER: Yes. They have very good videos.---go there.
SALLY: I thought you said you were fed up with watching TV!
21. Put one verb in each sentence into the used to form and the other verb into the
present simple.
Examples: When Margot first became a doctor, she used to work (work) in a small
hospital in Brighton, but now she works (work) in a large hospital in London.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Robert---(be) interested in football, but he (not/be) very interested in it any more.

Nowadays Kate---(never/go) dancing, but she---(go) a lot before she was married.
That shop---(be) a grocers when I was a child. Now it---(be) a supermarket.
Britain---(have) military service, but it---(not/have)it any more.
France---(be) a republic now, but it---(be) a monarchy.
---(you/like) history when you were at school? No, I didnt, but now I---(find) it quite
interesting.

22. Complete the sentences using will or would and one of the verbs in the box.
Example: Robert has got a very bad memory. Hell often forget (often) where hes
parked his car.
Carry on
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

spend

lend

go

throw

forget

Kate is very generous. She---(always) you money if you need it.

Kens grandfather was very mean. He---(never) anything away if he could use it again.
Mr Woods is a real chatterbox! He---talking fir hours and hours if you give him a chance.
When Simon was a child, he---(often) hours just looking out of the window.
Im always tired these days. Well. You---to bed so late every night, it isnt surprising!

23. Which of these sentences can be completed with either used to or would? Which of
them can only be completed with used to?
Examples: When Robert was younger, he used to/would go running every morning.
1.
2.
3.
4.

When Andrew was a small baby he---cry a lot.

When I was little, I---be afraid of the dark.
When we were children, we---visit my grandmother every Sunday afternoon.
When Mrs Woods was younger, she---play tennis every weekend.

5. Years ago I---have a motorbike.

6. There---be quite a lot of cinemas in the town, but now there arent any.
6.Grammar Practice Answer key
1.
1. could; 2. Can; 3. Could; 4. Been able to; 5. Can; 6. Be able to.
2.
1. were able to; 2.could/was able to; 3. Was able to; 4. Could/Were you able to,
couldnt/wasnt able to; 5. Could/was able to
3.
1. Robert could have gone; 2.He could have passed; 3. He could have been; 4.He could
have started; 5. He could have emigrated.
4.
1. was allowed to; 2. Could/were allowed to; 3. Were allowed to; 4. Could/was allowed
to
5.
(i)
(ii)

1. Must stay; 2. Must drink; 3.must take; 4. Must continue

1. Have to take; 2. Have to continue; 3. Have to stay; 4. Have to drink

6.
1. must/have to; 2. Have to; 3. Must/have to; 4. Had to; 5. Has had to; 6. Having to
7.
1. mustnt; 2. Dont have to; 3. Mustnt; 4. Neednt; 5. Dont need to; 6. Havent got to
8.
1.must; 2.cant/mustnt;3. Can; 4.neednt; 5.must; 6. Neednt
9.
1. didnt need to get up; 2. Didnt need to wear; 3. Neednt have worried; 4. Neednt
have paid; 5 didnt need to pay; 6. I think you should/ought to sell it.
10.
1.You should/ought to report it to the credit card company;2.Perhaps you should/ought
to buy a new alarm clock!; 3.Perhaps you should/ought to look for another job; 4. Dont
you think you should/ought apologize to them?; 6. I think you should/ought to sell it
11.
1.You shouldnt /oughtnt to work so hard; 2. You should/ought to have bought/buy an
alarm clock; 3. She shouldnt/oughtnt to have gone to work yesterday. She
should/ought to have stayed in bed.;4.He shouldnt/oughtnt to have walked into the
road without looking. He should/ought have looked first.
12.
1.had better be;2. Had better park; 3. Had better stay; 4. Had better hurry; 5. Had
better not leave;6. Had better put out.

13.
1.are not supposed to open; 2.was supposed to go; 3. Are not supposed to park; 4. Were
supposed to arrive; 5. Is supposed to have.
14.
1.shall I invite?; 2. Shall I put?; 3. Shall I tell?; 4. Shall I paint?
15.
1.You could be right; 2.she might win the race; 3.she may have forgotten about the
meeting;4. They might have been asleep; 5. He may not know the address;6. They could
have left early.7. He might not be coming; 8. I may see you tomorrow; 9.They could be
going on holiday; 10.She may not have caught the bus.
16.
1. can live; 2.can reach;3. Could cross; 4. Can survive; 5. Could grow; 6. Can make.
17.
1.should receive; 2.should have won; 3,should sell; 4. Should have passed; 5.shouldnt
take; 6. Should have arrived.
Note: In all sentences should can be replaced by ought to
18.
1.They cant be Greek. They speak Italian; 2. He must be ill. Hes got a high
temperature; 3. The heating cant be on. Its very cold in here; 4. They must be asleep.
Their bedroom lights are off. 5. She must be happy. Shes just pass her driving test. 6.
He cant be a doctor. Hes too young.
19.
1.She might phone later; 2.I should be at home by 6 oclock; 3. They could have gone
home; 4. He cant be telling the truth. 5. You must have heard the news; 6. I may not go
out this evening; 7. She cant have seen us; 8. The bus must have left; 9.He might not
have applied for the job; 10. She ought to be here soon
20.
1.How about; 2. Lets; 3. Shall we; 4.Why dont we; 5. Could; 6. Lets
21.
1.used to be, is not; 2.never goes, used to go; 3. Used to be, is; 4. Used to have, doesnt
have; 5. Is, used to be; 6. Did you use to like, find.
22.
1.will always lend; 2.would never throw; 3. Will carry on; 4.would often spend; 5.will go
23.
1. used to/would; 2.used to; 3. Used to/would. 4. Used to/would; 5. Used to; 6. Used to