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Some basic grammer questions (Can, Could etc)

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Latest post Mon, May 26 2008 6:21 PM by Anonymous. 3 replies.
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Netpicker9  +  477273 Fri, 15 Feb 08 03:59 PM

Hi,

When to use "Could" & "Can"?

Which one is correct (see below sentances)

Software was already installed on the machine.

Software is already  installed on the machine.


Is this correct?

I’ve made changes to
Netpicker9
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Grammar Geek  +  477277 Fri, 15 Feb 08 04:14 PM

Hello Netpicker,

Your first question is really, really broad. Use the search box at the top of the screen to look for can could and read though some of the threads it returns http://www.englishforums.com/search/could%2bcan.htm - If you still have questions, try to post a few sentences in which you're not sure which one to use and we'll try to help you understand it better.

In your second question, both are correct. The first places a bit more empahsis on the actual installation, the second on the state the machine is in now.

In your third question, it's correct, but not a full sentence. I've made changes to the schedule, or whatever. Obviously, you need to say what you've made changes to for it to be a complete sentence. (In case you care "I have made changes to" means you made the changes yourself. "I have had changes made to" means that you had someone else make the changes.)

 
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Goodman  +  477355 Fri, 15 Feb 08 11:43 PM

 

<<<When to use "Could" & "Can"? >>>

There is a bunch of auxilary words, i.e. Shall/ should/ May/Might and  “can”/ “could”  etc.  that are tircky to learn. Not only the tone changes with each word but each is  also indicative of certain level of  possibility and certainty.

I might go to the party – not certain but possibly I might go.

I will fihish the project by tomorrow afternoon- high certainty.

I might be able to complete the project by tomrrow – it’s 50/50, not certain.

 

Which one is correct (see below sentances)

Software was already installed on the machine.- Window XP was already installed with the computer when I bought it.. This is fine

Software is already  installed on the machine. “Is” is not making good sense to me at all.. I see either “was” or has been” installed as more logical.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Goodman
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Anonymous, 1 yr 181 days ago

1st Sentence is correct.

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