Share Modal verbs to express ability
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Even though we were cold and tired, we could / were able to reach the top of the mountain.
were able to
I was so worried that I couldn't sleep / couldn't have slept and I lay awake all night.
couldn't sleep
When I was a small child, I could / was able to sing beautifully, but my voice isn’t so good now.
could
Can you / Are you able to hear the neighbours’ television? It’s far too loud!
Can you
I could buy / could have bought my tablet more cheaply online, but I got it from my nearest independent computer shop instead because I like to support local businesses.
could have bought
Although the shop was very crowded, we could / were able to get the shopping done quite quickly.
were able to
I can’t carry everything, so I had to leave some things behind.
couldn't
I was very happy that I could meet all your friends when I visited you last month.
was able to
I’d be grateful if you can advise me about which book to buy.
could
I’m really pleased to hear that you could come to visit me next month.
can
It would be much easier if we can find the information on the internet.
could
We could find our way around Rome easily by using online maps on our smartphones.
were able to
We hope you’ll be able to offer us a discount if we stay in the hotel for two weeks.
-
A lot of unique markets could be found in London.
can
I ______ (not) come shopping with you tomorrow – I’ve got a dental appointment.
can’t
