I could hear his voice vs I can hear his voice

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'I could hear his voice' is used to talk about a past ability or possibility, while 'I can hear his voice' is used to talk about a present ability or action. The choice between the two depends on the timeframe you are referring to.

Last updated: March 19, 2024 • 1962 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used to talk about a past ability or possibility.

"I could hear his voice"

This phrase is used to describe an ability or possibility to hear someone's voice in the past. It indicates that the action was possible or achievable at that time.

Examples:

When I was in the next room, I could hear his voice clearly.
Even with all the noise, I could hear his voice in the distance.

Show examples from the web [+]

“I sat there for three hours and did not feel the time or the boredom of our talk and its foolish disconnection. As long as I could hear his voice, I was quite lost, ...
I saw Him! I could hear His voice in my head!" Gandalf: "And what did you tell Him ? Speak!" Pippin: "He asked me my name. I didn't answer." Pippin: "He hurt me!
thinking about that shit yo, Just his voice If I could hear his voice right now I'd answer the phone like...... you know what I mean yo listen if I knew where he was ...
I think about how much I wish I could hear his voice again. I can't remember how he sounded, just the little things is what I miss the most about him.

Alternatives:

I was able to hear his voice
I managed to hear his voice

This phrase is correct and commonly used to talk about a present ability or action.

"I can hear his voice"

This phrase is used to describe an ability to hear someone's voice in the present. It indicates that the action is currently possible or happening.

Examples:

Even with the window closed, I can hear his voice from outside.
I can hear his voice clearly through the phone.

Show examples from the web [+]

Jun 5, 2013 ... I can hear his voice when I put it to my shoulder "A gun's like a woman, son it's all how you hold her" He taught me a whole lot more than how to ...
Mar 17, 2015 ... "In the Valley I Can Hear His Voice" Tribute Quartet. Ashton Wheeler. Subscribe SubscribedUnsubscribe 8080. Loading... Loading... Working.
Aug 6, 2015 ... Tribute Quartet–"In the Valley I Can Hear His Voice". Scott Trammell. Subscribe SubscribedUnsubscribe 1010. Loading... Loading... Working.
Oct 11, 2013 ... “I can hear his voice so clearly. Do you think that I'll ever forget it? Because I'm afraid that one day I will.” She continued, “I had it all planned out ...

Alternatives:

I am able to hear his voice
I am hearing his voice

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

I could hear his voice vs I can hear his voice