GRAMMAR REVIEW: COULD vs. MIGHT — What's the difference?
Although could and might both express possibility, they differ in type of possibility, degree of likelihood, and additional meanings.
1. Expressing Possibility
MIGHT
Used for real, uncertain possibilities in the present or future.
Often suggests a lower probability than "may."
Examples:
It might rain later. (Possible, uncertain)
She might come to the party. (Not very likely)
COULD
Also expresses possibility, but with more focus on general potential rather than likelihood.
Often means something is theoretically possible, even if not likely.
Examples:
It could rain later. (Possible in a general sense)
She could come to the party. (She has the ability/opportunity, but we don’t know if she will)
TOP TIP!
might = uncertainty about what will happen
could = the situation allows it to happen, even if it probably won't
2. Ability or Potential (Unique to COULD)
'COULD' EXPRESSES:
past ability
conditional ability
polite suggestions
Examples:
When I was younger, I could run fast. (past ability)
We could go to the beach tomorrow. (suggestion/possible option)
I could help you if you want. (offer / conditional ability)
IMPORTANT: Might can't be used this way.
Don't forget to check out our other free exercises on modals:
Mixed modals 1 (should, can, must) (I)
Mixed modals 2 (should, can, must) (I)
Modals of speculation 1 (I)
Past modals (should have, must have, etc.) 1
MODALS with the INFINITIVE 1 (B)
MODALS with the INFINITIVE 2 (B)
MODALS (Couldn't/Might Not) (I)
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