She can’t find her keys. She might have lost them.
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer:
She might have lost them.
Explanation:
The sentence “She might have lost them” is an example of using a modal verb to express possibility about a past action. The modal verb “might” indicates that the speaker is not certain but considers it possible that the action occurred. In this case, the action is “lost them,” referring to the keys.
This type of construction combines a modal verb (might) with the perfect aspect (have + past participle). This structure is used to speculate about something that happened before the present moment. It does not confirm the event but expresses a reasonable guess.
Let’s break it down:
- “She can’t find her keys” is in the present tense and indicates a problem in the current moment.
- “She might have lost them” uses the modal “might” plus “have lost” to look back into the past and offer a possible reason for the current situation.
This structure is especially useful in English when discussing:
- Uncertain past events
- Possible causes for current problems
- Events that didn’t necessarily happen but are being considered
For example:
- He might have missed the bus.
- They could have forgotten the appointment.
- I may have left my phone at work.
Each of these examples uses a modal + perfect to express a possibility about a past situation.
Understanding how and when to use “might have + past participle” helps in speaking and writing English clearly when there is uncertainty about past actions. It adds subtlety and accuracy to communication, especially in situations where facts are not fully known.