Quote:
Originally Posted by Maxful
I have one more question. How about the difference between "can" and "could"?
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If a neurologist (nerve doctor) asked his patient about his paralysis, he might say; "
Can you hold a cap with your right hand?"
The doctor asked the patient's ability with very direct expression.
If I wanted to request you to open the window, I would say;
"
Could you open the window?"
This is not a question indeed, but "requesting politely".
So "could" be used also for "polite request" in some context, I think.