Ways to Use Can and Could

‘Can’ and ‘could’ are modal verbs which can be used in a few different ways.

Use “can” to talk about:

Ability:

I can swim well.

Possibility:

When mum gets back from shopping we can go out.

Opportunity:

I am not working today so we can go to the beach.

Permission:

You can park here.

Use “could” to talk about:

Possibility in the past:

Last year, we could go on holiday wherever we wanted.

Uncertain possibility in the future:

She could fail her exam unless she studies more.

Use either “can” or “could” to ASK permission. “Could” is more polite and formal:

Can I have another cup of coffee?

Could I borrow your car?

However, to GIVE permission, use “can” or “cannot”.

You can go out now.

You can’t borrow my car.

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