1. Input your text below.
2. Get it corrected in a few minutes by our editors.
3. Improve your English!

One of our experts will correct your English.

Our experts

1. Input your text below.
2. Get it corrected in a few minutes by our editors.
3. Improve your English!

One of our experts will correct your English.

Our experts

"How did he get across" vs "How could he get across"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'How did he get across?' is used to ask about a past action that has already happened, while 'How could he get across?' is used to ask about a hypothetical or possible action in the past. The choice between the two depends on the specific context and the intended meaning.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

How did he get across

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to ask about a past action that has already happened.

This phrase is used to inquire about the method or means someone used to move from one side of something to the other in the past.

Examples:

  • How did he get across the river without a boat?
  • I wonder how he got across the busy street so quickly.

Alternatives:

  • How did he manage to get across?
  • How did he succeed in getting across?
  • How did he make it across?
  • How did he cross over?
  • How did he traverse?

How could he get across

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to ask about a hypothetical or possible action in the past.

This phrase is used to inquire about the possibility or feasibility of someone moving from one side of something to the other in the past.

Examples:

  • How could he get across the river without a boat?
  • I wonder how he could get across the busy street so quickly.

Alternatives:

  • How could he have gotten across?
  • How might he have gotten across?
  • How could he manage to get across?
  • How could he have succeeded in getting across?
  • How could he have made it across?

Related Comparisons

Why choose TextRanch?

Lowest prices
Up to 50% lower than other online editing sites.

Fastest Times
Our team of editors is working for you 24/7.

Qualified Editors
Native English experts for UK or US English.

Top Customer Service
We are here to help. Satisfaction guaranteed!