Modal verbsEnglish level A2
Could
Could is the past of can — ability in the past — and the polite way to ask for things now.
Rule
Use could / couldn't for ability in the past. Could you...? is a polite request — softer than Can you...? After could, the verb stays in its base form.
Formula
| Past ability (+) | Subject + could + V1 | I could read at five.She could swim very well. |
|---|---|---|
| Negative (-) | Subject + couldn't + V1 | I couldn't sleep last night. |
| Polite request (?) | Could you + V1? | Could you help me?Could you open the window? |
In conversation
- ACould you pass the salt, please?
- BSure, here you are.
Notes
- Politeness ladder: Can you...? -> Could you...? -> Would you mind...?
- Possibility: It could rain later. (= maybe)
Practice
I missing word read when I was five.
missing word you pass the salt, please?
I missing word sleep last night - too much coffee.