Listed below are examples and uses of can / could / be able to for ability and permission
Present / Future
Use 'can' or 'be able to' to express an ability or possibility
Examples
He can play tennis well.
She is able to speak five languages.
They can come on Friday.
Jack will be able to come next week.
NOTE: The future of 'be able to' is 'will be able to
Past
Could in the past means the general ability to do something.
Examples
He could swim when he was five.
We could speak French when we were were younger.
IMPORTANT: If someone was in the position to do something, or managed to do something, we use 'was/were able to instead of 'could'
In the negative,' wasn't able to' OR 'couldn't' are both correct.
Examples
They were able to get tickets for the concert.
I was able to finish before 6.
I couldn't come last night, sorry. OR I wasn't able to come last night, sorry.
Test your understanding by taking the Can / Be Able To Quiz
