Modals and phrases of ability

Modals of

Ability

We can use can / could to talk about general abilities:

●Example: I can ski, but I can’t snowboard.

I couldn’t do maths at school.

●We can only use can in the present tense and could in the past tense.

So, when we need another form we use be able to.

●In the present perfect, past perfect, and after modal verbs.

How long have you been able to drive?
We hope we’ll be able to come on Saturday.
Everyone should be able to swim.

●After other verbs (want, need, like) or prepositions (of, about).

The person who gets the job needs to be able to speak English.
I like being able to visit my parents regularly.
Don’t worry about not being able to understand. You’ll be fine!

General Ability

Don’t use could for specific past achievements.
Example: When I went to France last year, I was able to visit the Louvre. NOT I could visit

In negative sentences about specific past events, we use couldn’t or wasn’t able to.
Example: I went to France last year, but I couldn’t remember / I wasn’t able to remember
any words in French.

We can also use managed to for specific past achievements, especially to show that
something was difficult
Example: It was hard work, but I managed to finish the project.

Specific Past Achievements

Multiple Choice

I _____ open the door while carrying all the shopping.

• managed

• could

Multiple Choice

The presentation wasn't working at first but we _____ fix it.

• could

• were able to

Multiple Choice

How did you _____ write a book so soon after having a baby?

• manage to

• be able to

Multiple Choice

She _____ ski almost before she learned to walk.

• managed to

• could

Multiple Choice

He _____ attend the last meeting due to his daughter's illness.

• weren't able to

• couldn't

Multiple Choice

We were _____ leave our suitcases with reception while we waited for our room to be ready.

• could

• able to

Multiple Choice

I can't believe you _____ get us a table at the restaurant. It's always full!

• could

• managed to

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