Use of ‘could’

Could is a past tense of can.

‘Could’ is used to show past tense.

‘Could’ is used with the verb of present tense.

 

‘Could’ is used to show ability in past tense.

His younger sister could sing a song.

Could his younger sister sing a song?

His younger sister could not sing a song.

Could his younger sister not sing a song?

 

We can make wh questions with ‘could’

When could his younger sister sing a song?

Where could his younger sister sing a song?

How could his younger sister sing a song?

What could his younger sister sing?

 

‘Could’ is used to express about possible things but are not done in the past.

You could have participated in that quiz.

He could have scored more marks.

 

‘Could’ is used as helping verb in past tense.

He could meet after two days.

She could join after one month.

‘Could’ is used to show imagination in the past.

If I had money, I could buy a new car.

If he had his own house, he could stay there.

 

‘Could’ is used to request politely but as present tense.

Could you give me your pen?

 

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Hi, I am Madhuri Kherde, an educationist, ex-principal of a secondary school in Mumbai, and founder of EnglishLamp.com. I have been teaching English and Mathematics for the last thirty-four years. I like to share my knowledge and experience with others. So I hope you enjoy my posts on this website.