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Describe Past Abilities with "Could" and "Was Able to"

This set contains 11 annotated sentences.

Dataset version: enGram 3.4, Jan 2024

When SI stPastwas p2young, SI Mcould v2run very fast.

Explanation

When I was young, I could run very fast.

Patternsrun — ran — run

SShe Mcould v2speak three languages fluently.

Explanation

She could speak three languages fluently.

Patternsspeak — spoke — spoken

SThey Mcould always v2make Sus v2laugh with their jokes.

Explanation

They could always make us laugh with their jokes.

Patternsmake — made — made

SHe stPastwas p2able vIto finish the race despite st*being v2Pastinjured.

Explanation

He was able to finish the race despite being injured.

SShe stPastwas p2able vIto solve the puzzle before anyone else.

Explanation

She was able to solve the puzzle before anyone else.

SI Mcould v2play the piano when SI stPastwas p2a child.

Explanation

I could play the piano when I was a child.

SHe Mcould v2see the mountains from his window.

Explanation

He could see the mountains from his window.

Patternssee — saw — seen

SWe stPastwere p2able vIto find a good restaurant in the city.

Explanation

We were able to find a good restaurant in the city.

Patternsfind — found — found^a good restaurant

SShe stPastwas p2able vIto pass the exam with high marks.

Explanation

She was able to pass the exam with high marks.

MCould Syou v2swim when Syou stPastwere five years p2old?

Explanation

Could you swim when you were five years old?

Patternsswim — swam — swum

stPastWere Syou p2able vIto complete the project on time?

Explanation

Were you able to complete the project on time?