Thread: Verb tense confusion - how can "could" be used to describe future events?
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Old 17-Apr-2008, 07:51
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Default Re: Verb tense confusion - how can "could" be used to describe future events?
Hi pizzadude

This is in addition to David's help.

Because could expresses a possibility, it can be used to express present, past, and future:

Present: Could you pass me a pencil?
=> a polite request
Note that, speakers will also use can.

Past: I couldn't call you yesterday.
=> meaning, I wasn't able to.

Future: I could call you tomorrow.
=> meaning, there is a possibility if (a) you so wish it or (b) I so wish it.


"Billy, could you pass that pencil to me?"
"Billy, can you pass that pencil to me?"

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