Grammar

How to use the word "would" in speaking english everyday?

English is not my native language, so I always confuse when I hear someone say the sentences with the word "would". How can I understand what they say ?

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Let's first compare "would" to "could" in questions. " vs. " So, we see that "would" shows that one thing is contingent upon another.

— Marksesl.com

Let's first compare "would" to "could" in questions.
" vs.
" So, we see that "would" shows that one thing is contingent upon another.
" The difference here is that "would" means that the person will actually go if given some money, while "could" means that the person would have the ability to go, but may not actually go.
Keep in mind that "would," as well as words like "could," "should," and "might" are modal verbs, and modal verbs act as helping or auxiliary verbs for actual verbs.

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18 Answers

Marksesl.com answered . 23 years ago

Let's first compare "would" to "could" in questions. "Could" means do you have the ability, whereas "would" means do you have the willingness: "Would you help me?" vs. "Could you help me?" We often use could to mean willingness as well, but it really should be "would."

Now let's try some statements: "I would go, if I had some money." So, we see that "would" shows that one thing is