Can vs Could

Front

What is the primary difference between 'can' and 'could'?

Back

'Can' is used to express ability or permission in the present, while 'could' is used for past ability or polite requests.

Front

In what context would you use 'can'?

Back

'Can' is used to indicate ability, permission, or possibility in the present.

Front

In what context would you use 'could'?

Back

'Could' is used to indicate past ability, polite requests, or hypothetical situations.

Front

How do you form a negative sentence with 'can'?

Back

You add 'not' to 'can' to form 'cannot' or 'can't'.

Front

How do you form a negative sentence with 'could'?

Back

You add 'not' to 'could' to form 'could not' or 'couldn't'.

Front

Provide an example of 'can' used in a sentence.

Back

I can swim very well.

Front

Provide an example of 'could' used in a sentence.

Back

When I was younger, I could run fast.

Front

What is a polite way to ask for permission using 'can'?

Back

Can I borrow your pen?

Front

What is a polite way to ask for permission using 'could'?

Back

Could I borrow your pen, please?

Front

How do 'can' and 'could' relate to making requests?

Back

'Can' is more informal, while 'could' is more polite and formal.