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Can vs. could



 
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ESL Forums | English Vocabulary, Grammar and Idioms
Usage of "see fit" | Lexicography
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Can vs. could #1 (permalink) Thu Feb 24, 2011 12:45 pm   Can vs. could
 

Hi,

How could you tell if she's happy or not?
vs.
How can you tell if she's happy or not?

Can we use could in the present tense in this context?
What's the difference between them?

---
Do you want to bet how long their relationship would last?
vs.
Do you want to bet how long their relationship will last?

Which is correct and why?

Thanks.
Rickyrocky
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Can vs. could #2 (permalink) Thu Feb 24, 2011 18:28 pm   Can vs. could
 

I think both are correct considering grammar. Could and would are more gentle as they express a little bit uncertainty while can and will more certainty and decisiveness. All four could be used to express a present time.
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