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Cat navy 425 Posted 7 years ago
Grammar

Question about sentences

Dear all,

Kindly tell me whether the following expression shows the possibility of the present, past or future.

1) A lot of crime could be prevented.


Thank you.

  

Top answer

It can be present or future depending on the context of the situation. It can't be past. "

— Englishmaven

  • It can be present or future depending on the context of the situation.
  • It can't be past.
  • "
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2 Answers
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It can be present or future depending on the context of the situation. It can't be past. That would be "could have been."

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cat navy 425

Dear all,

Kindly tell me whether the following expression shows the possibility of the present, past or future.

1) A lot of crime could be prevented.


Thank you.

"could" can be used for all three of those time periods. Here are some examples.

The final vote in the Senate could come next week. (future)

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