Modal Verbs: Could vs. Able To
The provided text presents a grammar exercise focusing on the difference between the modal verb "could" and the phrase "able to." It demonstrates how to rephrase sentences using "can" and "could" with the more formal "able to" and "unable to" constructions. The examples show the correct past and present tense conjugations for various subjects. The exercise highlights the proper usage of "was able to" and "were able to" for past tense and "am able to," "is able to," and "are able to" for present tense. This substitution exercise is intended to improve grammatical accuracy and enhance writing skills.
Use able to / unable to
Could = Past Tense
1. I can play. (Use able to)
Ans. I am able to play.
2. I could play (Use able to)
Ans. I was able to play.
3. He could tell me. (Use able to)
Ans. He was able to tell me.
4. They could tell me. (Use able to)
Ans. They were able to tell me.
5. She can work. (Use able to)
Ans. She is able to work.
6. I can write a letter.
Ans. I am able to write a letter.
7. She could eat a mango.
Ans. She was able to eat a mango.
8. She could not eat sandwich.
Ans. She was unable to eat sandwich.
9. I cannot dance.
Ans. I am unable to dance.
10. I cannot write an essay.
Ans. I am unable to write an essay.
