What is the difference between "could"&"could have"?

Super Sonic · #1 13-Feb-2007, 12:54

He could destroy the monster.

He could have destroyed the monster.

Thanks in advance.

Harry Smith · #2 13-Feb-2007, 13:14

Quote:

Originally Posted by Super Sonic

He could destroy the monster.

He could have destroyed the monster.

Thanks in advance.

"He could destroy the monster" refers to the present or future. It means he would be able to destroy the monster.
"He could have destroyed the monster" refers to the past. It means he would have been able to destroy the monster but it didn't happen.

Super Sonic · #3 13-Feb-2007, 13:30

Quote:

Originally Posted by Harry Smith

"He could destroy the monster" refers to the present or future. It means he would be able to destroy the monster.
"He could have destroyed the monster" refers to the past. It means he would have been able to destroy the monster but it didn't happen.

Thank you, mister:)

Harry Smith · #4 13-Feb-2007, 13:55

Quote:

Originally Posted by Super Sonic

Thank you, mister:)

You are welcome!

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