Past Ability (could, managed to)

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

• could

• able to

We were _____ get a boat from the island that day because of the bad weather.

• not able to

• not manage to

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

• could

• managed to

I _____ afford to buy a car so I borrowed money from the bank.

• didn't manage to

• couldn't

Luckily, I _____ get to the airport on time, despite the traffic.

• managed to

• could

When I first moved to Argentina I _____ only speak a few words of Spanish.

• could

• managed to

He _____ swim until he had lessons when he was 20 years old.

• didn't manage to

• couldn't

I _____ touch my toes until I started doing yoga and became more flexible.

• could

• couldn't

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

• could

• were able to

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

• manage to

• be able to