TextRanch

The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

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

i thought it could be costly. vs i thought it can costly.

The correct phrase is "I thought it could be costly." The modal verb "could" is used to express possibility or uncertainty in the past, which is the appropriate context in this case. "I thought it can costly." is incorrect because "can" is not the appropriate modal verb to convey past possibility or uncertainty.

Last updated: March 20, 2024 • 808 views

i thought it could be costly.

This phrase is correct. The modal verb "could" is used to express possibility or uncertainty in the past.

This phrase is used to express a past thought about the possibility of something being expensive.

Examples:

  • I thought it could be costly, so I decided not to buy it.
  • She thought it could be costly, but she purchased it anyway.
  • They thought it could be costly, so they looked for a cheaper alternative.
  • I was worried because I thought it could be costly repairs and the next day Arif contacted me, he was very calm and assured me that he would keep me updated  ...

i thought it can costly.

This phrase is incorrect. "Can" is not the appropriate modal verb to convey past possibility or uncertainty.

Related Comparisons

What Our Customers Are Saying

Our customers love us! We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283,125 votes.
Also check out our 2,100+ reviews on TrustPilot (4.9TextRanch on TrustPilot).

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!