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GRAMMAR A2 - BASIC 0/12
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Lecture1.1
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Quiz1.1
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Lecture1.2
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Quiz1.2
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Lecture1.3
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Quiz1.3
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Lecture1.4
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Quiz1.4
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Lecture1.5
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Quiz1.5
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Lecture1.6
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Quiz1.6
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Modals: Can & Could
We use “can” to express ability.
Affirmative
Person + can + verb (present form)
I can play the piano
Negative
Person + can not / can’t + verb (present form)
I can’t handle the situation
Interrogative
can + Person + verb (present form)
Can you speak Portuguese?
Could is the past form of can
I can swim now but I couldn’t swim when I was 5.
Sheila can’t drive but she is learning
He couldn’t ski, but after taking lessons, he can.
He can speak English
They couldn’t play the guitar. They can now
Can you dive? Yes I can
Could you dive one year ago? No I couldn’t
We also use “can” for asking or giving permission. The use of “may” is more frequent in these cases.
You can start the exam now. (giving)
Can we start the exam now? (asking)
You can open the window. (giving)
Can I open the window? (asking)
You can play when you feel better. (giving)
Can I play when I feel better? (asking)
Can we go to the beach? (asking)
You can go to the beach. (giving)
We also use “can” for talking about possibility or uncertainty.
It could rain tomorrow
We can just stay at home, what do you think?
It can be done easily, I am sure!
I don’t know if that can happen
We also use “could” for making polite requests.
You could just relax for today and think about it tomorrow.
Can you open the window? (informal request)
Could you open the window? (formal request)