At a glance
Modal + have + V3
- should have + V3a good idea that didn't happen: You should have told me.
- could have + V3possible, but it didn't happen: We could have won.
- must have + V3I'm sure it happened: She must have left.
- can't have + V3I'm sure it didn't happen: He can't have seen us.
- might have + V3maybe it happened: They might have missed the bus.
Regret and criticism
I should have studied more. (I didn't, and that was a mistake.)
You shouldn't have gone out without a coat.
Things that were possible
I could have won the race, but I fell.
Be careful! You could have had an accident.
Guessing about the past
The street is wet. It must have rained.
She's late. She might have missed the bus.
He can't have seen us. He didn't say hello.
should / could / must / might / can't+have+past participle
Practice
Answer the questions. Get 7 out of 10 to finish this lesson.