when can is used? and when could ?similarly when may and when might ?

Here are a few explanations with examples to explain the concept of Modals:

CAN :

Can usually expresses ability, capacity or permission.

  • Can you get me a medicine?

  • He can work for hours at a stretch;

  • I can swim in a river.

MAY :

May is rather formal. It is used to express possibility in affirmative sentences. Can is used in the corresponding interrogative and negative sentences.

  • It may rain today;

  • She may come for the party;

  • Can this be true?

  • It cannot be false!

COULD AND MIGHT :

Could and Might are used as past equivalents of can and may . In present times, could and might are used as less positive versions of can and may .

  • I could easily solve the puzzle;

  • The host might not turn up at all;

  • Could you pass me the salt?

  • You could have accepted the offer.

  • You might want to give an explanation.

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