Can y could

Can y could son verbos auxiliares modales. Usamos estos dos auxiliares modales para expresar habilidad, capacidad, probabilidad, posibilidad, permiso y como verbos de percepción. Profundicemos más.

Se usa can y could para hablar sobre habilidad, tanto en general como una habilidad expresada en presente

• I can ride a bike.
• When I was five I could ride a bike. (‘Could’ funciona como el pasado de ‘can’ además de tener su propio significado.).
• She can do what she wants, it’s none of my business.

Se usa could para hablar sobre el pasado cuando se refiere a algo que ocurrió solo una vez

• When she was young she could drink what she liked.
• James could smell the fish.

Solemos utilizar la forma ‘be able to’ para expresar habilidad y capacidad en el futuro

• By next week I’ll be able to drive on my own with an adult.
• She’ll be able to come to the meeting next week.

Se usa can y could para expresar probabilidad y posibilidad

• Can you let me know what you’re thinking about doing?
• I could go to the concert tonight, but I’m really not sure.

Se usa can y could para usos interpersonales, tal como solicitar, preguntar, permiso etc.

• Could you please let me know where I need to go to get to Madrid?
• Can I offer you something, sir?
• You cannot cross the road! It’s a red light.

Usamos can y could para expresar habilidad o percepción con verbos como see, taste, feel, hear, smell etc.

• Yesterday, at the conference, I couldn’t hear the speaker.
• I can see and feel just fine, doctor.
• Can you please taste my meal and tell me what you think?