“Could” is a fantastic and flexible word that helps you do two important things: talk about skills you had in the past and make very polite requests in the present. Mastering “could” will make you sound more natural and courteous in your conversations. Let’s see how it works! 🤝
Function & Usage
“Could” has two main jobs, one for looking back at the past and one for speaking politely in the present.
- Past Ability: To talk about a general skill or ability you had in the past (the past of “can”).
Example: When I was a child, I could climb trees easily. She could speak French when she lived in Paris. - Polite Requests: To ask someone to do something in a very polite way. It’s softer and less direct than “Can you…?”.
Example: Could you please open the window? Could you tell me what time it is?
The Structure (Form)
“Could” is a modal verb, which means it’s very easy to use. It never changes, and it’s always followed by the base form of the main verb (e.g., help, run, see).
| Type | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Positive (+) | Subject + could + Base Verb | I could swim. |
| Negative (-) | Subject + could not (couldn’t) + Base Verb | He couldn’t see. |
| Question (?) | Could + Subject + Base Verb? | Could you help? |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding “to” after “could”: Never use “to” with modal verbs. Incorrect: “I could to play the piano.” Correct: “I could play the piano.”
- Using a past tense verb after “could”: “Could” already shows the past, so the main verb stays in its base form. Incorrect: “She could ran fast.” Correct: “She could run fast.”
Let’s see it in action! 🎬
Grandfather: When I was your age, I could run a mile in five minutes.
Grandchild: Wow! I couldn’t do that now.
Customer: Excuse me, could you help me find the sugar?
Employee: Of course. It’s on aisle five. Could I help you with anything else?
Person A: I forgot my wallet. Could you possibly lend me five dollars?
Person B: No problem. I remember a time when I couldn’t even afford a bus ticket!
Check Your Understanding! ✅
1. you please pass the salt?
2. When I was five, I not swim. (Use the full word)
3. He find his keys yesterday. (Use the contraction)
4. She speak perfect English after living in London.
5. I borrow your pen for a moment?
6. He said he ___ help us tomorrow.
7. I ___ see the stage very well from my seat.
8. ___ you repeat that, please?
9. My grandfather ___ five languages.
10. She asked if she ___ use my phone.
