I thought I could vs I thought I can

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'I thought I could' is the past tense form and is used when referring to a past belief or assumption. 'I thought I can' is the present tense form and is used when expressing a current belief or assumption.

Last updated: March 28, 2024 • 1943 views

I thought I could

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is the past tense form and is used when referring to a past belief or assumption. It indicates that at a certain point in the past, the speaker believed they were capable of doing something.

Examples:

I thought I could finish the project on time, but I was wrong.
At first, I thought I could solve the problem by myself.

Alternatives:

I believed I could
I thought I was able to

I thought I can

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is the present tense form and is used when expressing a current belief or assumption. It indicates that the speaker currently believes they are capable of doing something.

Examples:

I thought I can handle the situation, but it turned out to be more difficult than I expected.
At that moment, I thought I can make a difference.

Alternatives:

I believe I can
I think I can

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I thought I could vs I thought I can

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