Quick Overview of Using “Could” for Past Ability

In English, “could” is the past tense form of “can” when we want to talk about abilities we had in the past. Think of “can” as present ability (what you can do now), and “could” as past ability (what you were able to do in the past).

How to Use “Could” for Past Ability

Using “could” for past ability is straightforward. Here’s how it generally works:

1. Describe General Abilities in the Past
   When you talk about things you were able to do regularly or generally in the past, use “could.”
   • Examples:
     • “When I was young, I could run very fast.” 🏃‍♂️
     • “She could speak three languages fluently when she lived in Europe.” 🗣️
2. Express Opportunities in the Past “Could” also shows what was possible or what someone had the ability to do in certain situations.
   • Examples:
     • “We could go to the beach every summer because my grandparents lived nearby.”
     • “He could study for hours without getting tired.”

Important: Using “Could” for One-Time Abilities

When you want to refer to a specific occasion in the past, especially something that someone succeeded at or did once, “could” is not used. Instead, we use “was able to” or “managed to.”

• Examples:
  • ✔️ “He was able to finish the project on time.”
  • ✔️ “She managed to lift the heavy box.”
• 🚫 Incorrect: “He could finish the project on time.”
• 🚫 Incorrect: “She could lift the heavy box.”

Practice with “Could” for Past Ability

Let’s check your understanding with some practice sentences. Fill in the blanks with “could,” “was able to,” or “managed to.”

1. When I was younger, I _____ climb trees very easily.
2. After many tries, they finally _____ solve the puzzle.
3. In high school, Sarah _____ play the piano beautifully.
4. Last night, he _____ finish all his homework before dinner.

Answers:

1. When I was younger, I could climb trees very easily.
2. After many tries, they finally managed to solve the puzzle.
3. In high school, Sarah could play the piano beautifully.
4. Last night, he was able to finish all his homework before dinner.