“Could” is a Modal Verb. In fact, it acts as the past tense of the Modal Verb can. This Modal Verb refers to the ability to have done something, Don’t worry, this is not as confusing as it seems, here’s a simple dialogue:
Can you pass the test tomorrow?
I don’t think so.
Could you have passed yesterday’s test?
Definitely not.
Alternatively, the speaker could’ve said, “Can you pass the test now?”. If they wanted to use the Modal Verb “can” in the present tense.

Interestingly, “can” doesn’t change form with tense. Again, the Verb is used to speak of present or future actions. We use “could” to speak of the past. Here is another way to think of these verbs and tense:
I could play the guitar yesterday.
I can play the guitar now.
I can play the guitar tomorrow.
Modal Verbs
What do I need to know about Modal Verbs
Most languages have Modal Verbs, they are used to state feelings of certainty, possibility, impossibility, ability, make requests, and offers. The list of Modal Verbs includes:
may
might
would
and many other words. These words often proceed in the simple form of the Verb. For example, “The train might be late”. In the previous sentence, “be” has no Gerund, it’s the Verbs base. Additionally, Modal Verbs may be used in conjunction with Verbs of Frequency in sentences like, “He may never arrive”.
Examples of the Modal Verbs “Can vs Could”
Sasuke can dance and sing really well.
Olivia could run a mile in just under 6 minutes when she was younger.
Let’s practice
Q1: Try and make your own sentence.
Q2: What are some things that you can and can’t do?
Q3: What could you do when you were younger that you can’t do now?
Eigooo, the English Training Chat Application
To improve your English, the best way is to practice every day.
Eigooo supports you with a 24/7 chat service with real teachers.
- You can chat with the teacher one-on-one.
- The teacher will make immediate corrections to your messages.
- No need to make a reservation. You can start whenever you want.
- The free trial is ready.
Sign up now and get free messages to try it out.
