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i would have vs i could have

Both 'I would have' and 'I could have' are correct phrases in English, but they are used in different contexts. 'I would have' is used to talk about something that was possible in the past but did not happen, while 'I could have' is used to talk about something that was possible in the past and could have happened.

Last updated: April 01, 2024 • 905 views

i would have

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to talk about something that was possible in the past but did not happen.

Use 'I would have' to express regret or talk about hypothetical situations in the past. For example, 'I would have gone to the party if I had known about it.'

Examples:

  • I would have helped you if you had asked.
  • She would have passed the exam if she had studied more.
  • They would have won the game if they had played better.
  • He would have bought the car if he had enough money.
  • We would have visited the museum if it had been open.

Alternatives:

  • I might have
  • I should have
  • I could have

i could have

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to talk about something that was possible in the past and could have happened.

Use 'I could have' to talk about past possibilities or choices that were available but not necessarily acted upon. For example, 'I could have gone to the concert, but I decided to stay home.'

Examples:

  • I could have finished the project earlier if I had worked harder.
  • She could have caught the train if she had left earlier.
  • They could have won the match if they had trained more.
  • He could have passed the test if he had studied.
  • We could have gone on vacation if we had saved more money.
  • I could have worn your wedding dress.
  • I could have prevented that murder.
  • I could have a relapse in the middle of the night.
  • I could have an infection or something, you know.
  • I could have become a conductor.
  • I could have gone up and back.
  • I could have killed Arthur Mitchell the first chance I got.
  • I could have been kissing her when she threw up.
  • I could have left a million times.
  • I could have taught him the basic principles of Dragon hunting.
  • I could have helped you choose the ring.
  • I could have got you a deal on a real car.
  • I could have ruined my entire life.
  • I could have been a good governor.
  • Papa said I could have died.
  • I could have married an honest man.
  • Just so I know whether I could have beaten you.
  • Every time he looked at you tonight, I could have...
  • I could have posted that for you.
  • I could have made a fortune selling it.

Alternatives:

  • I would have
  • I might have
  • I should have

Related Comparisons

could have vs would have i have vs i would have Whether i can have vs Whether i could have let me have vs may i have i would not have vs i should not have you could have vs informed me about that

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