What is the Modal Verb Could?
The modal verb 'could' is the past tense of 'can' and also expresses polite requests and conditional possibilities. It shows what was possible before and what might be possible now under certain conditions.
Could expresses past ability ('I could run as a child'), polite requests ('Could you help?'), and conditional possibility ('If I studied, I could pass').
Step-by-step worked examples
When I was young, I could climb that tree.
'Could' here expresses past ability. Meaning: I was able to climb it then, but perhaps not now.
Could you pass the salt?
'Could' is a polite request. More polite than 'Can you pass the salt?'
If you studied hard, you could pass the exam.
'Could' expresses conditional possibility. If the condition is met, the result is possible.
Flashcards
Quick quiz
Q1.'She could speak German as a child.' This means…
Q2.Which is more polite?
Q3.'Could I go to the party?' is…
Q4.Negative of 'could': 'I ___ find my keys.'
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Common mistakes
Using 'could' only for past, never for requests or conditionals. — Correct: 'Could' works for past ability, polite requests, and conditionals.
'I could to go home.' — Correct: 'I could go home.' — no 'to' after modal.
Confusing 'could' with 'would'. — Correct: 'Could' = ability/request; 'would' = habit/conditional action.
Using 'couldn't' for obligation. — Correct: 'Couldn't' is inability; use 'mustn't' for 'must not.'
FAQ
What is the modal verb could?
Could is the past of 'can' and also expresses polite requests and conditional possibility.
Is could only for the past?
No. 'Could' also makes polite requests ('Could you help?') and conditionals ('If you tried, you could win').
Difference between could and can?
'Can' is present ability/permission; 'could' is past, request, or conditional.
Could or would — which one?
'Could' = ability or possibility; 'would' = willingness or habit.