Can vs. Could
Most of us think we know how to use “can” and “could,” but do we know how they’re used or do we use what sounds right? Generally it’s the latter. This post will briefly detail how these two words work. Read more to find out!
Welcome to Grammar Quick Fixes!
Many of you seem concerned about small grammatical nuances. As such, I have made a new category of posts entitled “Grammar Quick Fix.” These will be short posts detailing one small aspect of grammar. So on with my first Quick Fix: Can/Could!
Can
Can generally refers to one’s ability to do something. By definition, it means:
to be able to; have the ability, power, or skill to (Dictionary.com)
When using can, you will most likely be referring to this ability, power, or skill in the present or future tense. For example, “I can go to the store after dinner.” This is interchangeable with “I have the ability to go to the store after dinner.”
Could
Could can function in a couple different ways. The first is the past tense of can, which is the primary form of functioning. “In 1985, one could dance like a robot without being laughed at.” Since we’re discussing 1985, could is appropriate here. “In 1985, one can dance like a robot…” doesn’t really make sense.
The other use of could is to establish a level of doubt, tentativeness or politeness. If someone asked you, “Can you do this for me?” or “Could you do this for me?” which would sound more polite and formal? Clearly the latter. Let’s look at an example of establishing doubt:
I can go to the store later.
I could go to the store later.
When you say “I can” you are just establishing that you have the ability to do so. When you say “I could” you establish that, yes you have the ability, but it’s only a possibility that you will go.
Final Thoughts
Can is generally present tense and is used to show you have the ability to do something. Could is used to be the past tense form of can, used to establish doubt, or used to be more formal.
Thanks Kelly…you have clarified this for me and hopefully some others!
I love this new feature. Here’s a suggestion for a future Grammar Quick Fix post: i.e. versus e.g. It’s been explained to me a number of times, but I still find myself needing to search for clarification on which to use in various circumstances.
Great idea Jennifer! Thanks!
Hmm…interesting…
In another way, one can treat the can vs could dilemma much like may vs might. In both examples respectively, the first words (can & may) are used to express a higher degree of probability and a lesser degree of formality as well. On the other hand, the latter words (could & might) express a lesser degree of probability and a higher degree of formality. Due to the higher degree of formality, (could & might) are often used in settings where a certain level of respect needs to be shown, usually when the speaker and listener have not established any form of relationship i.e. strangers, great disparities between rank, etc.
Very well clarified
Thanks so much… I’m really poor with my grammar…this quick fix and quick read really make sense and so much applicable!!!! Hoping for more tips =)
Great post! This is really enlightened me. My grammar sucks.