can/could

[Unregistered]

Hi there,

Is there any difference between 'can' and 'could' in the following question?

How (can/ could) I write this sentence in a more appropriately way?

Thanks
pete

 

[riverkid]

Hi there,

Is there any difference between 'can' and 'could' in the following question?

How (can/ could) I write this sentence in a more appropriate[ly] way?

Thanks
pete

Just a difference in the level of politeness, Pete. 'could' is more deferential, not so forward, less assuming. Notice no 'ly' on 'appropriate.