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Wed 18 Mar, 2015 05:08 am
Dear Members,
These days I am learning the subject Wish clause with my grammar book . And the other day I came across a grammar rule I am still not familiar with.
The author of my grammar says,
After the subject pronouns I and we , we use could instead of would.
E.g. I wish I could travel abroad (Not : I wish I would travel abroad)
But as I know English speakers say, If I had time , I would definitely help you with your homework.
Please help me with this misunderstanding, Accept my thanks for your attention in advance.
In your sentences, "could" and "would" are helping verbs to establish time/tense for the verb.
I wish I could travel abroad (Not : I wish I would travel abroad) - Yes, that's correct.
I don't see the "wish" in your next example sentence:
If I had time , I would definitely help you with your homework.
"would help" is the main verb but "could" would be acceptable.
@ificouldreturnit,
Quote:After the subject pronouns I and we , we use could instead of would.
"I would if I could"
Would often denotes volition or intention.
Could often denotes ability do do something.
Dear members who have answered, thank you so much! Now I have the idea.
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