Could vs Can Difference?

Can means be able to or permitted to do something. Could refers to the possibility or the ability to do something.

Can and could sentences?

'can' and 'could'
  • They could come by car. (= Maybe they will come by car.) ...
  • It can be very cold here in winter. (= It is sometimes very cold here in winter.) ...
  • That can't be true. ...
  • It's ten o'clock. ...
  • It could be very cold there in winter. ...
  • They know the way here. ...
  • She can speak several languages. ...
  • I can see you.

What is the difference between can could and May?

'Could' can be used in the first, second or third person in whichever a person wants to use in a sentence. Could is the past tense of can. ... 'May' is used to denote a sense of possibility or a term of factual statement in a sentence. It is used to state that something is possible in the future or present.

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.