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Masanori Takaoka Posted 10 years ago
Grammar

can vs be able to

(1) I wasn't able to shoot the bear because my rifle did not work/fire.
(2) I couldn't shoot the bear because I couldn't bring myself to do so.
(3) John isn't able to walk because of his sore feet.

Could you teach me how I should use "can" and "be able to" differently?
  

Top answer

The difference between 'be able to' and 'could' is apparent only in past events/situations. You should normally use 'was/were able to' whenever you did something in the past that was the result of your efforts, rather than your ability. Likewise, use 'wasn't/weren't able to' when you failed to do something on a particur occasion in the past.

— Ivanhr

  • The difference between 'be able to' and 'could' is apparent only in past events/situations.
  • You should normally use 'was/were able to' whenever you did something in the past that was the result of your efforts, rather than your ability.
  • Likewise, use 'wasn't/weren't able to' when you failed to do something on a particur occasion in the past.
  • Our boat sank in the storm, but we were able to swim to the shore.
  • Unlike 'was/were able to', 'could' indicates the ability to do something and is usually not tied to any particular event/situation.
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1 Answers
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The difference between 'be able to' and 'could' is apparent only in past events/situations.

You should normally use 'was/were able to' whenever you did something in the past that was the result of your efforts, rather than your ability. Likewise, use 'wasn't/weren't able to' when you failed to do something on a particur occasion in the past.

Our boat sank in the storm, but we
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