Could

Question

Hello,What is the difference between these two?What if you could beat cancer without chemotherapy vs suppose you may/might beat cancer without chemotherapy.Kind regards

Michael Chambers Teaching English · Accepted Answer

With "suppose" (or imagine etc), you don't have may / might. "Suppose you beat cancer...." Now it means the same as your first sentence.

Kind regards, Michael

MFarooq · Answer

Can we use may/might instead of could in the first sentence? Thank you

Michael Chambers Teaching English · Answer

No.

MFarooq · Answer

Hi,

"could,may and might" can be used for possibility. In the sentence,I think "possibility" is getting described. So, if we use may or might instead of "could" , do you think it is not going to be okay? Could you explain to me please?

Kind regards

Michael Chambers Teaching English · Answer

Your sentence: What if you could beat cancer without chemotherapy vs suppose you may/might beat cancer without chemotherapy.

There's a fine distinction here. "May" and "might" are used to talk about the intention of an individual. what they feel like doing.

e.g. I may / might go for a walk later today = I can go for a walk later and it is possible that I will want to do this

You can also use "could" in my example instead of "may" or "might", as long as it is clear from the context that intention is being referred to, and not just possibility.

In your example, we are talking only about possibility. The "you" is impersonal and we are not talking about anyone's specific intention to beat cancer without chemotherapy.

Kind regards, Michael

Anonymous · Answer

Michael chambers help me I want to take a loan so my boss write  down and give me your letter

AlpheccaStars · Answer

AnonymousMichael chambers help me

Michael hasn't been active here for a few months. You might not get an answer.

Could

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

Related Questions