Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of the following sentences correctly uses 'can' in the context of ability?
Which of the following sentences correctly uses 'can' in the context of ability?
- I can speak three languages fluently. (correct)
- When I was younger, I can play the guitar.
- He could solve complex problems last year.
- She could swim well as a child.
What is the correct usage of 'could' when asking for permission?
What is the correct usage of 'could' when asking for permission?
- Can I use your phone?
- Could I borrow your pen, please? (correct)
- Could you pass me the salt?
- Can I leave early today?
In which scenario would 'can' be the most appropriate choice?
In which scenario would 'can' be the most appropriate choice?
- When reflecting on abilities from childhood.
- When making a polite suggestion.
- When discussing what might happen tomorrow.
- When stating a fact about current weather conditions. (correct)
Which of the following pairings correctly reflects the use of 'can' and 'could' in terms of politeness?
Which of the following pairings correctly reflects the use of 'can' and 'could' in terms of politeness?
Which statement exemplifies a hypothetical possibility using 'could'?
Which statement exemplifies a hypothetical possibility using 'could'?
Flashcards
Can (ability)
Can (ability)
Used for present ability or capability
Could (ability)
Could (ability)
Used for past ability or general ability in the past
Can (permission)
Can (permission)
Informal way to ask for permission
Could (permission)
Could (permission)
Signup and view all the flashcards
Can (possibility)
Can (possibility)
Signup and view all the flashcards
Could (possibility)
Could (possibility)
Signup and view all the flashcards
Can (politeness)
Can (politeness)
Signup and view all the flashcards
Could (politeness)
Could (politeness)
Signup and view all the flashcards
Study Notes
Distinguishing "Can" and "Could"
- "Can" and "could" usage requires careful consideration for proper English
- Crucial distinctions exist in various contexts
Ability
- Can: Indicates present ability or capability
- Example: "I can swim."
- Could: Indicates past ability or general ability in the past.
- Example: "When I was a child, I could swim well."
Permission
- Can: Used to ask for or give permission, particularly in informal settings.
- Example: "Can I borrow your book?"
- Could: More polite or formal way to ask for permission.
- Example: "Could I borrow your book, please?"
Possibility
- Can: Indicates something possible or likely in the present.
- Example: "It can get very hot in summer."
- Could: Suggests a possibility that is more hypothetical or uncertain.
- Example: "It could rain tomorrow."
Politeness and Suggestions
- Can: Used for direct requests or offers.
- Example: "Can you help me with this?"
- Could: Used to make polite requests or suggestions; implies a softer tone.
- Example: "Could you help me with this, if you have time?"
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
