Question

Choose the correct word/phrase to complete the sentence.
______ grandpa drive a car when he was eighteen?

• A. Can
• B. Could
• C. Should
• D. Will

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Could

The modal, 'can' usually expresses ability or capability. The modal, 'could' also expresses ability or capability and is used as the past equivalent of 'can'.

In the given sentence, the speaker is asking about 'grandpa's ability to drive a car when he was eighteen'. As this event has happened in the past, the appropriate modal is 'could' and not 'can'. Hence, option B is correct and option A is incorrect.

The modal, 'should' is used to express a duty or an obligation. Eg: 'We should obey the laws'.In the given sentence, there is no indication of duty or obligation. Hence, option C is incorrect.

The modal, 'will' is used to indicate an invitation or a request. Eg: 'Will you please join me for tea?'. As there is no invitation or request in the given sentence, option D is incorrect.