Grammar · B1 · 2 min
How to use COULD: 8 uses
A free lesson from Ink, your AI English teacher.
Key points
Could you…?ask for something politely; softer than "Can you…?"
Could I…?ask if you may do something
could = maybesomething is possible: It could rain later.
could = was able topast ability. Say "I could swim," not "I can swim."
You could…give an idea, softly
If…, I could…I would be able to, if things were different
could have + donea chance in the past that did not happen
can → couldtell someone what another person said: He said he could help.
Quick quiz
3 questionsWhy didn't you call me? I ___ you.
When I was five, I ___ swim.
Take an umbrella. It ___ rain later.
More free lessons
See allWould or used to? Past habitsGrammar · B1 · 1 minHow to use WOULD: 8 usesGrammar · B1 · 2 minRude or polite? Can you, could you, would youEveryday phrases · A2 · under 1 min
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