0
Anonymous Posted 11 years ago
Grammar
It couldn't have been printed in the 18th century.
Are the sentences below correct? If "yes" what's the difference between them?
1. It couldn't have been printed in the 18th century.
2. It couldn't be printed in the 18th century.
The second sentence is more natural for me but I think in English the first sentence is more natural and more often used - Am I right?
1. It couldn't have been printed in the 18th century.
2. It couldn't be printed in the 18th century.
The second sentence is more natural for me but I think in English the first sentence is more natural and more often used - Am I right?
Top answer
1. You consider the evidence and logically conclude that a specific thing was not printed in the 18th century (but at another time). 2.
- 1.
- You consider the evidence and logically conclude that a specific thing was not printed in the 18th century (but at another time).
- 2.
- It was not physically possible to print documents of this type in the 18th century.
- The meanings are different.
Get the Weekly English Kit 📬
New words, one handy idiom, and a 2-minute quiz — delivered to your inbox to keep your streak alive.
2 Answers
0
1. You consider the evidence and logically conclude that a specific thing was not printed in the 18th century (but at another time).
2. It was not physically possible to print documents of this type in the 18th century.
The meanings are different. Both are natural in the correct context. Kind regards, Michael
2. It was not physically possible to print documents of this type in the 18th century.
The meanings are different. Both are natural in the correct context. Kind regards, Michael
00
Related Questions