The word "could" is a versatile modal verb in English, and it can be used in various ways in both spoken and written English. Here are some common uses in both contexts:
**Spoken English:**
1. "Could you pass me the salt, please?"
- In spoken English, "could" is often used to make polite requests or ask for assistance.
2. "I could go for a coffee right now."
- It can express the possibility or desire for something in a casual conversation.
3. "She could have studied harder for the exam."
- "Could" is used to express past ability or past possibilities in spoken language.
**Written English:**
1. In a formal email:
"I could attend the meeting on your behalf if you're unavailable."
- In written communication, especially in a formal context, "could" can be used to offer assistance or indicate capability.
2. In a report:
"The research findings suggest that this approach could lead to improved outcomes."
- "Could" is employed in writing to discuss possibilities or potential outcomes based on evidence.
3. In a biography:
"At a young age, he could already play multiple musical instruments."
- In written accounts of someone's life or achievements, "could" can be used to describe past abilities.
In both spoken and written English, "could" is a flexible modal verb that can be used to express a range of meanings, including ability, possibility, desire, and politeness, depending on the context and the purpose of the communication.