Question

Como diferenciar may, can e could?

Answer 1

CAN x MAY x COULD

A: I see it’s raining again.
B: Yes, but it’s still early. It can may / might / could clear up later.
A: I was planning to go to the sea.
B: Well, the weather couldn’t may not / might not be so bad down there. It’s often better on the coast.
A: Yes. Actually, if I go, could I borrow your new camera?
B: Yes, you could can / may. But be careful with it, please. ____________//////_____/_________/// Expressar permissão

Can ou may são usados para formular um pedido polido ou dar / negar permissão. May é mais formal do que can.

Can / May I open the window, please? – Yes, of course you can / may. / No, I’m sorry, you can’t / may not.
You wanted to borrow my printer. OK, you can / may.
Could pode ser usado em pedidos, mas não é usado para dar / negar permissão.

Could I look at your map, please? – Yes, you can / may (could).
I’m sorry, but you can’t (couldn’t) park here. This is private.