MODALS OF ABILITY

MODALS OF ABILITY

GRAMMAR 1

It was a sunny Saturday morning, and Emma wanted to visit the park. She asked her friend, Jack, to join her. "Can you come with me to the park?" Emma asked. "Yes, I can!" Jack said happily. "I could come earlier, but I had to help my mom first. Now I’m free!" At the park, they saw many things to do. Emma pointed to the playground. "Look! We can play on the swings." "Great idea!" Jack said. "I wasn’t able to swing very high last year, but now I can!" After playing, they noticed a group of kids flying kites. Emma said, "When I was younger, I could never fly a kite. Maybe I will try today." Jack smiled. "I can show you how. It’s easy once you know the trick." Emma held the kite, and Jack helped her run. Soon, the kite was flying in the sky. "Wow, I’m able to do it now!" Emma cheered. They spent the rest of the day laughing, running, and trying new things. Emma said, "I’m so happy we came to the park. We could enjoy so much together!"Jack agreed. "Yes, it was a fun day. Next time, we can bring more friends!"

CAN COULD BE ABLE TO

CAN is used to indicate ability, capability, or permission. I can jump high. She can sing loudly. The dog can chase a ball. Can you see the rainbow? I can eat ice cream. Birds can fly in the sky. Can we go to the park? The car can go fast. Can you help me with my homework?

COULD is the past of "CAN", but it is also used to express possibility, or permission in a more polite way. I could hear the rain outside. She could read the big book. Could you help me tie my shoes? He could be at the party, but I'm not sure. Could you find my favorite toy? When I was younger, I could run really fast. Could you please pass me the salt?

BE ABLE TO is a phrase that is often used as an alternative to "can" and "could" to express ability or possibility. (past): He was able to finish the project on time. I was able to write when I was 5. (present): She is able to read a book in a day. I am able to solve puzzles. (future): I will be able to help you. She will be able to arrive on time.

So... what's the difference CAN expresses general ability, possibility, or permission in the present. COULD expresses ability, possibility, or permission in a more polite, past, or uncertain context. BE ABLE TO is used as a more formal or alternative way to express ability, possibility, or permission and can be used in various tenses.

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