Ability: Can and Could helps you communicate about general and specific ability across time. Start with the meaning, notice the pattern, and then use it in complete sentences.
By the end of this lesson, you can
- I can talk about present and past ability using can, could and be able to.
- Recognise and build the form: can/could + base verb; be able to + base verb.
- Use the pattern accurately in a meaningful sentence.
Meaning and use
Use Ability: Can and Could for general and specific ability across time. Always read the whole situation before choosing the form: grammar expresses a meaning, not only a pattern.
Mia can speak three languages.
Use 'can + base verb' to express present ability.
I could swim when I was five.
Use 'could' for a general ability in the past.
After several attempts, they were able to rescue the dog.
Use 'were able to' for a successful specific action in the past.
can/could + base verb; be able to + base verbKeep this pattern visible while you study the examples. Then cover it and rebuild one example from memory.
Key rules to notice
These rules explain why the form is correct. Focus on the subject, auxiliary, verb form, word order and time or meaning clues.
- Use 'can + base verb' to express present ability.
- Use 'could' for a general ability in the past.
- Use 'were able to' for a successful specific action in the past.
- Use 'can't' for present or future inability in this context.
- After 'will', use 'be able to' rather than another modal.
Common mistakes
Not:Mia cans speak three languages.
Use:Mia can speak three languages.
Use 'can + base verb' to express present ability.
Not:I can swim when I was five.
Use:I could swim when I was five.
Use 'could' for a general ability in the past.
Not:After several attempts, they could rescue the dog.
Use:After several attempts, they were able to rescue the dog.
Use 'were able to' for a successful specific action in the past.
Check before you practise
Complete each sentence mentally, then reveal the answer.
She ____ come tomorrow because she has another appointment.
can't
Use 'can't' for present or future inability in this context.
Will you ____ finish by Friday?
be able to
After 'will', use 'be able to' rather than another modal.
He ____ read before he started school.
could
Use 'could' for a continuing general ability in the past.