Can I say?

Question

I thought I have a key.I thought I do this right.

Clive · Accepted Answer

Hi,

I thought I have a key.

I thought I do this right.

I thought I had a key.

I thought I did this right.

Clive

Avangi · Answer

I thought I have a key.

I thought I do this right.

This is an interesting question.
We typically backshift, regardless of whether what we thought is true or false, or whether we have knowledge of its truth or falsity.

With the first one, even as you're searching through your purse, you would say either "I think I have a key," or "I thought I had a key."

The same is true of the second example, although in this case my ear is more willing to accept the version you present, in certain scenarios. For example, you're using the combination to open the safe, after your first attempt fails. You've been doing it for years. "I do this right" describes habituation.

Well, maybe that's not such a great example! You'd be immediately aware of each failure.
(Perhaps the answer to your question is "No.")
The habituation statement would have to be false. (Even then, it would be more natural to backshift, but I still think your version is possible.) Let me see if I can come up with an example.

Can I say?

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