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Bebop Posted 11 years ago
Grammar

Could/can

I'm asking room service to bring me a ruler. She asks if it has to be a long one. I say:

Yeah, you could/can bring me a long or a short one.

Are both OK here?
  

Top answer

bebop Are both OK here? Grammatically, yes, but I'd say "can" because it's an on-going situation. "could" doesn't sound quite as idiomatic as "can" in that situation.

— CalifJim

  • bebop Are both OK here?
  • Grammatically, yes, but I'd say "can" because it's an on-going situation.
  • "could" doesn't sound quite as idiomatic as "can" in that situation.
  • CJ
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4 Answers
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bebopAre both OK here?
Grammatically, yes, but I'd say "can" because it's an on-going situation. "could" doesn't sound quite as idiomatic as "can" in that situation.

CJ
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CalifJim bebopAre both OK here?Grammatically, yes, but I'd say "can" because it's an on-going situation. "could" doesn't sound quite as idiomatic as "can" in that situation.CJ
Isn't "could" more polite in this situation?
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AnonymousIsn't "could" more polite in this situation?
No. It's the wrong type of sentence. It's not a request.

Could you please bring me (something)? (question, request)

But
Can I bring you (something)? (question, offer)

I can bring you (anything you want). (s
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CalifJimNo. It's the wrong type of sentence. It's not a request.
I see. Thanks.
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