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I was able to vs I could change

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English. They convey a similar meaning but with a slight difference in nuance. 'I was able to' emphasizes the ability or capacity to do something, while 'I could change' focuses more on the possibility or potential to do something.

Last updated: April 01, 2024 • 779 views

I was able to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to indicate that someone had the capacity or skill to do something in the past.

Examples:

I was able to finish the project on time.
She was able to solve the difficult puzzle.
He was able to lift the heavy box.
They were able to find a solution to the problem.
We were able to reach a compromise.

Show examples from the web [+]

However, I was able to outfit it.
I was able to turn the tables on her easy.
I was able to isolate penetrating lacerations to the abdomen.
I was able to recreate all the blows to Lieutenant Torres' body.
I was able to hold them...
And I was able to dream.
Fortunately, I was able to overpower him.
I was able to avoid capture.
I was able to get an earlier plane.
I was able to get tickets to Don Giovanni.
I was able to complete several tests before she became delirious.
I was able to create living cell tissue.
I was able to obtain blood and tissue samples, plus...
I was able to separate the stains.
I was able to fence the watches.
I was able to fence the watches.
I was able to capture the coordinates of her internal chip...
I was able to track her down using a reliable street contact.
I was able to track Langella's movements through the hotel.
I was able to fill some of their needs.

Alternatives:

I managed to
I succeeded in
I accomplished

I could change

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to express the possibility or potential to do something in the past or present.

Examples:

I could change my mind if you convince me.
She could change her plans at the last minute.
He could change his attitude towards the situation.
They could change the way they approach the problem.
We could change the date of the meeting.

Show examples from the web [+]

I could change things that have happened which I didn't like.
I know that I could change the past, telling the truth.
Or I could change my name to Justin.
Allen, if you wanted me to, I could change my flight.
The things that I could change just by thinking.
Now I could change your doorknob in other ways.
Look, I could change this number at any time.
I could change a diaper blindfolded if I had to.
But if it continues to drag out, I could change my mind.
You know what I said about the fish? I could change my mind.
You know, if we're doing the first three years over again, I could change majors.
I've just been feeling disconnected lately, and I thought by doing something meaningful with my days that I could change that.
I don't know if I could change.
I mean, I could change the way the world does amputations.
The beatings came a few hours apart, but I could change my mind once I cut open the body.
People thought I could change the world.
I thought I could change it.
I could change it if you want.
If I could change my body.
You said I could change my mind.

Alternatives:

I might change
I may change
I can change

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