Welcome to Your Easy English Lesson on Possibility!

Hello English learners! Today, we’re going to talk about something super useful: expressing possibility in English. If you’re just starting to learn, or if you want to feel more confident when speaking, you’re in the right place! We’ll focus on using two important words: can and could. These words help us talk about things that are possible now or in the future. Let’s get started and make talking about possibility easy!

What Does “Possibility” Mean?

Possibility is about things that might happen or might be true. It’s not about things that are certain or sure. When we talk about possibility, we are saying something is possible, but not guaranteed. Think of it like this: if it’s possible to rain tomorrow, it means rain is an option, but maybe it won’t rain. Understanding possibility helps you talk about options and potential situations in English.

Using “Can” to Talk About Possibility

The word can is fantastic for talking about possibility, especially when we are talking about general possibilities or abilities in the present. It’s very common and easy to use!

“Can” for General Possibilities

We use can to say that something is generally possible. Here are some examples to make it clear:

• Example 1: “It can be very hot in summer.” (This is generally true, it’s possible for summer to be hot.)
• Example 2: “You can find good coffee in this city.” (It’s possible to find good coffee here.)
• Example 3: “Learning English can be fun!” (It’s possible for learning English to be enjoyable.)

Notice how “can” in these sentences shows that something is generally true or achievable. It’s about what is possible in a general sense.

“Can” for Ability – A Quick Note

You might already know can for talking about ability (like “I can swim”). While that’s true, remember it also shows possibility – the possibility of you swimming is there because you have the ability! So, ability is a type of possibility.

• Example: “Birds can fly.” (Birds have the ability, and it’s possible for them to fly.)

Using “Could” to Talk About Possibility

Now let’s look at could. Could is also used for possibility, but it’s often used for slightly different situations than can. It can sound a little more polite or talk about possibilities that are less certain or more in the future.

“Could” for Polite Requests (and Possibility!)

One very common use of could is to make polite requests. And guess what? Polite requests are also about possibility! You are asking if it’s possible for someone to do something.

• Example 1: “Could you help me, please?” (Are you able to help me? Is it possible for you to help?)
• Example 2: “Could I have some water?” (Is it possible for me to have some water?)
• Example 3: “Could you close the door?” (Is it possible for you to close the door?)

Using could makes your requests softer and more polite than using “can”. It’s a great way to be respectful in English.

“Could” for Future Possibilities

Could is also used to talk about possibilities in the future, especially when we are not 100% sure. It suggests a weaker possibility than “can” sometimes.

• Example 1: “It could rain tomorrow.” (Maybe it will rain, maybe not. It’s a possibility.)
• Example 2: “We could go to the beach this weekend.” (It’s an idea, it’s possible, but maybe we won’t.)
• Example 3: “I could learn to play the guitar.” (It’s possible for me to learn, it’s an option.)

When you use could for future possibilities, you are showing that it’s an option, but it’s not a definite plan. It’s about things that are potentially going to happen.

“Can” vs. “Could” for Possibility: What’s the Difference?

Sometimes, can and could can seem similar when talking about possibility. Here’s a simple way to think about it:

• Can: More general, present possibilities, abilities. Often feels a bit stronger or more certain in general possibility.
• Could: More polite requests, future possibilities, often feels a bit weaker or less certain possibility.

But don’t worry too much about being perfect! At your level (A1+), focusing on understanding the basic uses of both is most important. People will understand you if you use either can or could in many situations. Practice is key to getting more comfortable!

Let’s Practice Talking About Possibility!

Now it’s your turn to practice! Complete these sentences using can or could to talk about possibility. Choose the best word for each sentence.

1. ___ you open the window, please? (asking politely)
2. It ___ be very cold in winter in some countries. (general possibility)
3. I think I ___ visit my friend next week. (future possibility, not certain)
4. ___ you speak English? (asking about ability/possibility)
5. We ___ go for a walk after dinner. (future possibility, an idea)

Answers:

1. Could you open the window, please? (Could is more polite for requests)
2. It can be very cold in winter in some countries. (Can for general possibility)
3. I think I could visit my friend next week. (Could for future possibility, less certain plan)
4. Can you speak English? (Can for ability, also showing possibility)
5. We could go for a walk after dinner. (Could for future possibility, an idea or suggestion)

Keep Practicing and Speaking!

Great job practicing talking about possibility with can and could! The best way to improve is to keep using these words in your own sentences. Try talking to yourself, writing sentences, or even better, practice speaking with someone!

To get even more practice and improve your spoken English, check out Lingofrnd.com! Lingofrnd is your AI spoken English teacher, ready to help you practice using can and could and build your speaking confidence. It’s a fun and easy way to learn!

Ready to practice speaking about possibilities right now? Download App and start speaking English with Lingofrnd today!

Keep learning, keep practicing, and you’ll become a confident English speaker!