Find English Teachers
На добраніч
My mother could have given me some money if she'd wanted to, but she didn't. ↑Can I replace "could" with "should"?🤔 Modal verbs are really tricky, aren't they?
May 7, 2025 12:21 AM
Answers · 16
2
You can't do that because it makes no sense with 'if she'd wanted to'. You can say that she should've given you some money but she didn't.
May 7, 2025 3:19 AM
1
Could is used to express past possibilities or to suggest what may happen in the present or future. Should is rather used for: - recommendations: you should go see a doctor if you are feeling unwell. - to express something that is expected: the train should arrive in a minute now. - to express what you consider being right: I don't have money so my mother should give me some. - to express what you consider important to do: I should get up early this morning if I don't want to miss my train. Long time no see by the way, I hope you are doing well.
May 7, 2025 8:12 AM
1
no. here "can" means possibility in the past so you can't use "should" which means obligation and надобраніч як напевно і напротязі
May 8, 2025 7:57 AM
1
Could = past ability / polite possibility You can replace could with can only if you're talking about now or the future, not the past. Example: “I could help you tomorrow.” → “I can help you tomorrow.” Should → Can (NOT usually interchangeable) Should = advice / recommendation Can = ability or permission Example: “You should see a doctor. Replace could with can only if talking about present/future possibility. Don’t replace should with can if you want to keep the advice meaning — they express different ideas.If you want to master English grammar I would be glad to help you with your skills as an experienced teacher
May 7, 2025 3:42 PM
1
Hi, you can use either or, but it will have a slightly different meaning. “Could” is used for something she possibly was able to do. “Should” is more of a recommendation for her what to do.
May 7, 2025 12:21 PM
Show more
Still haven’t found your answers?
Write down your questions and let the native speakers help you!