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Learning English Grammar
'Can', 'could', 'be able to', 'manage to'
Jun 25, 2024
Learn about using modal verbs 'can', 'could', 'be able to' to express ability in present and past. Get tips, examples, and a quiz to reinforce learning. Understand nuances of these modal verbs for effective communication.
06:17
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Quick takeaways
- Use 'can' or 'could' with sense and thinking verbs for abilities in the present and past.
- Be able to expresses surprising abilities; manage to describes successful or difficult actions.
Deep dives
Modal Verbs of Ability
Modal verbs like can and could are used with main verbs to express abilities. For instance, humans can live without water for a limited time. Additionally, be able to is used to suggest something surprising, like living without food for weeks. In the past, could and was/were able to are used to indicate abilities based on context, such as writing in different regions.
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