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.