Can and could

Question 1

I can do something =

Answer 1

I know how to do it, or it is possible for me to do it:

…I can play the piano. My brother can play the piano too.
…Sarah can speak Italian, but she can’t speak Spanish

Question 2

For the past (yesterday / last week etc.), we use

Answer 2

could/couldn’t

…When I was young, I could run very fast.
…Before Maria came to Britain, she couldn’t understand much English. Now she can

Question 3

We use Can you … ? or Could you … ?

Answer 3

When we ask people to do things

…Can you open the door, please? or Could you open the door, please?

Question 4

We use Can I have … ? or Can I get … ?

Answer 4

to ask for something

…Can I have a glass of water, please? or Can I get … ?

Question 5

Can I … ? or Could I … ? =

Answer 5

is it OK to do something?

…Can I sit here?
…Tom, could I borrow your umbrella?