For questions about the difference between "can" and "could". This tag should also be used for questions about the interchangeability of the two words in a particular context.
Questions tagged [can-could]
47 questions
7
votes
2 answers
Is it incorrect to say "If you could"?
I tend to use the following construction often in my e-mails:
It would be great if you could...
However my German colleague repeatedly reminds me that according to the rules he was taught, using "if" together with "could" in the way I do is…
vahidg
- 173
- 1
- 1
- 4
5
votes
5 answers
If only you could see what I have seen with your eyes
I watch film science fiction The Blade Runer and man says this sentence. he is holding eye in his hand. I see in in a subtitle but I am not understanding this meaning. Can my friends in a Language and Usage website help me understanding meaning? Is…
The Beefer Fan
- 779
3
votes
1 answer
Can and Could's usage?
Always I appreciate your answers. Today I made a list of the usage of Can and Could for my better understanding for English. Though, I am still getting used to with this site. Therefore, my list is not so quite neat after all. And also there must be…
dolco
- 133
1
vote
1 answer
Why is "can" so often preferred over "could" in hypothetical questions in media headlines?
Just some examples from the media:
Can planting billions of trees save the planet?
Can modular homes solve the UK's housing crisis?
Can the Democrats Do Better Than Trump on North Korea?
Don’t Assume Trump’s Approval Rating Can’t Climb Higher.
Can…
1
vote
1 answer
can vs could in an informal request
Could anyone help me with can vs could in a request? I know 'can' is used in an informal way 'Hi bro, can I use your pen?' and 'could' in a formal way 'Excuse me, could I use your pen please?' But when a mother asks her son to turn down the music,…
David
- 67
1
vote
1 answer
could or allowed to
Are both examples acceptable?
As I had to go to the dentist, I was allowed to leave work early
As I had to go to the dentist, I could leave work early.
Does the implied permission legitimise the grammar?
mscola1975
- 61
1
vote
1 answer
Meaning of the phrase "I could tell"
Context:
I was so happy I felt tears starting in my eyes, and then she up and hugged me.
I think she could tell.
Igor V. Novokshonov
- 55
- 2
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- 5
0
votes
2 answers
"Can" or "could" in the mentioned sentence?
Could / Can Happiness bring pain?
The above sentence is not meant to mean the past time. "Could", and not "can", is used for past. So, "can" is preferable in the sentence?
On the other hand, the sentence is meant to ask whether there are possible…
Sasan
- 3,342
0
votes
2 answers
If XYZ can or could?
I am drafting an invitation to some clients regarding an event our company is holding.
The template I am going off suggests closing the email with:
"It will be great if [FIRM] can RSVP by March 20th"
I am wondering if that should be would/could…
PEWPEPEPWPE
- 11
0
votes
2 answers
Which sentence is wrong?
Take a look at this part of a conversation:
A: I got very wet walking home in the rain last night.
|1. You could have taken a taxi.
B: Why did you walk? |2. You could take a taxi.
|3. You was were able to…
Saleh
- 17