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Chae Uk Posted 9 years ago
Grammar

Couldn't have p.p and couldn't

Hi

I have a question.

I know 'couldn't have' p.p can mean speculation. But at the same time, it also can be used like 'couldn't'. And I want to know the difference between those.

For example)

I couldn't have lent you my car since it had been broken.

It can be replaced

I couldn't (wasn't able to) lend you my car since it had been broken.

I will look forward to your replying.

Thanx.

  

Top answer

Yes, these can be used in the same situation but the implications are slightly different. For example: A and B are good friends: A: Why didn't you let me borrow your car last night? I missed out on a great date because I didn't have a car.

— Anonymous

  • Yes, these can be used in the same situation but the implications are slightly different.
  • For example: A and B are good friends: A: Why didn't you let me borrow your car last night?
  • I missed out on a great date because I didn't have a car.
  • I'm thinking of ending our friendship because of this.
  • B: I couldn't have lent you my car last night.
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3 Answers
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Yes, these can be used in the same situation but the implications are slightly different. For example:


A and B are good friends:

A: Why didn't you let me borrow your car last night? I missed out on a great date because I didn't have a car. I'm thinking of ending our friendship because of this.

B: I couldn't have lent you my car last night. It was in the shop.

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To comment further, "I couldn't lend you my car.", is abrupt and would be said to someone you know but are not close to, without regard for his feelings. This is similar to degrees of polite speech in other languages.


"I couldn't have lent you my car." is more apologetic in tone. You would say this to someone you know well. This shows you are concerned about his feelings.

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Chae UkI want to know the difference between those.

Here's one way to look at it.

I couldn't lend = I was not able to lend (and I didn't lend)
I couldn't have lent = I would not have been able to lend (so I would not have lent)

The first form is more 'real', more 'factual'. It tells what really happened.

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