Can be , could be , must be?

Question

Can anyone tell the detailed meaning of these 3 phrases?I just can't wholly understand these meaning in specific? any annotation and examples will be appreciated. TOny

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

can be, could be, must be: These have many uses.
Consult grammar books. Turn to the chapters on modal verbs.
Meanwhile, here are just a few.
1.
can be = am/is/are able to be
could be = was/were able to be; would be able to be (often used in reported speech)

I can be there in two hours. (I am able to be there in two hours.)

I said I could be there in two hours. (I said I was able to be there in two hours.)

The ocean can be seen from here. (One is able to see the ocean from here.)

He told me that the ocean could be seen from there. (He told me that one would be able see the ocean from there.)

2.
could = may = might = it is possible that ... am/is/are/will be ...
I could be wrong. = I may be wrong. = I might be wrong. = It's possible that I am wrong.

Bill overslept, so he could be late. = He may be late. = He might be late. = It's possible that he will be late.

3.
must = has to / have to = it is imperative that

Dr. Anderson must be here by two o'clock or he will miss his flight. = He has to be here by two o'clock. = It is imperative that he be here by two o'clock.

All employees must sign this insurance form. = All employees have to sign this insurance form. = It is imperative that all employees sign this insurance form.

4.
must = the only logical conclusion is that

Franny's car is in the driveway, and the lights are on; she must be home. (The only logical conclusion is that she is home.)

Her husband has been sick for a long time. It must be difficult for her. (The only logical conclusion is that it is difficult for her.)

Look at the moving men struggling with that armoire. It must weigh a ton! (The only logical conclusion is that it weighs a ton, i.e., it is very heavy.)

Tonyoung · Answer

You have been a great help to me Calijim.Thanks a lot

Can be , could be , must be?

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

Related Questions