2. 1. Would + like
2. Can and could in requests
Contents
3. 1. Would + like
We use would like:
a) to say what someone wants to do or
wishes:
I would like + noun
I would like a coke, please.
I would like + to + infinitive
I would like to go for a walk.
b) to make a polite offer or invitation:
Would you like a chocolate?
Would you like to have dinner with us?
● In conversation and informal writing, would is
often shortened to ’d:
I would like = I’d like
you would like: you’d like
Etc.
● to talk about our preferences we also can
these expressions:
I think I would prefer coffee this morning.
I would rather live near the sea than in the
mountains.
4. 1. Can and could in requests
● We use can and could to make requests:
Could (more polite):
Could I have the bill, please?
Could I have two postcards please?
Hello, could I speak to Mr. Smith, please?
Can:
Can I have another ice-cream, mom?
Jeff, can I borrow your umbrella?
Can I speak with you?
● Notice that the infinitive is used after
modal verbs (can, could, would…)
6. 2. Present continuous referring to the future
● We can use present continuous to talk about actions or events in the future that have been
already arranged or planned.
I am visiting my sister tonight.
Are they finally moving to Paris next year?
Paul is taking his son to the zoo this afternoon.
Max isn’t coming to the party this Saturday.
● Notice that there is a suggestion that more than one person knows the plan.
