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When does one use "can," when "could" or "will" vs. "would"?

[panjandrum]

Originally Posted by Ruth Winett

When does one use "can," when "could" or "will" vs. "would"?

We use will as a modal verb expressing the future tense , would as a past tense of will.

For instance , he said he would be away for a couple of days.

It also expresses the conditional mood " indicating the consequence of an imagined event or situation "

He would lose his job if he were identified.

I would is used to give advice as in "I wouldn't drink that if I were you".
It can express a desire or inclination " Would you like some water?."
It expresses a polite request " Would you pour the wine, please?".