Modal Verb Could
Modal Verb Could – Exercises
These exercises focus on Could
What is Could?
"Could" is the past tense of "can", but it has additional uses beyond just referring to the past. It’s a modal verb used to express:
-
Past abilities
-
Polite requests
-
Possibilities
-
Hypothetical situations
Uses of Could
1. Ability in the Past
Use "could" to describe something someone was able to do in the past.
Example:
-
When I was younger, I could run 5 miles without stopping.
-
She could play the piano when she was a child.
2. Polite Requests
Use "could" to make polite requests.
Example:
-
Could you help me with my homework?
-
Could I borrow your pen, please?
3. Possibility
Use "could" to show that something is possible but not certain.
Example:
-
It could rain later, so bring an umbrella.
-
You could win the lottery if you’re lucky.
4. Hypothetical Situations
Use "could" to talk about something that might happen under certain conditions.
Example:
-
If I had more time, I could travel around the world.
-
We could go to the park if the weather improves.
Rules for Using Could
-
"Could" is always followed by the base form of the verb (without "to").
✅ Correct: She could dance well.
❌ Incorrect: She could to dance well. -
The negative form is "could not" or "couldn’t".
✅ Correct: I couldn’t finish the project.
❌ Incorrect: I don’t could finish the project. -
"Could" does not change with the subject.
✅ Correct: He could swim. / They could swim.
❌ Incorrect: He coulds swim.
Common Errors with Could
|
Error |
Why It’s Wrong |
Correct Form |
|
I could to read faster. |
"To" is not needed after "could." |
I could read faster. |
|
She coulds bake cookies. |
"Could" does not take an "s." |
She could bake cookies. |
|
I don’t could understand it. |
Use "couldn’t" instead of "don’t could." |
I couldn’t understand it. |
|
Could you to call me later? |
"To" is not needed in questions. |
Could you call me later? |
Everyday Use of Could
Here are some common ways to use "could" in daily life:
|
Situation |
Example Sentence |
|
Talking about past ability |
When I was five, I could climb trees. |
|
Making polite requests |
Could you pass me the salt? |
|
Discussing possibilities |
We could watch a movie tonight. |
|
Hypothetical situations |
If I were rich, I could buy a yacht. |
FAQ About Could
Can "could" be used in the present?
Yes, "could" is used for possibilities, polite requests, or hypothetical situations in the present. Example: "It could be sunny tomorrow."
What is the negative form of "could"?
The negative form is "could not" or "couldn’t". Example: "She couldn’t attend the meeting."
What’s the difference between "can" and "could"?
-
"Can" is used for the present or general ability.
-
"Could" is used for the past, polite requests, or possibilities.
How do you form questions with "could"?
Place "could" at the beginning of the question. Example: "Could you explain this to me?"
Is "could" formal or informal?
"Could" is polite and suitable for both formal and informal situations.