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I see countless of people using "can", "could", "will" and "would", simply using them, mixing them up and more. I am not sure and want to be clear of the meaning, usage and difference of these words.

These are a few examples:

Can and could

a) I can check your order and see how is the status. b) I could check your oder and see how is the status. a2) Can you give me a lift back home? b2) Could you give me a lift back home?

Will and would a) I will help you with your homework tomorrow. b) I would help you with your homework tomorrow. a2) Will you refund my money? b2) Would you refund my money?

Maebara
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  • Please see this question on the ELU site and many other previous questions, such as some of those linked in the panel on the right. – Weather Vane Mar 12 '21 at 15:24
  • It doesn't really make any difference which of *can/could* you use in the first case (unless you're sarcastically saying Even though I could* do it, I won't). You'd only usually say I would help...* if you were going to continue by specifying the preconditions under which you would help (otherwise, you won't). Asking someone if they *would* do something is just a bit more "deferential, polite" than asking if they *will* do it, but basically they mean the same. – FumbleFingers Mar 12 '21 at 16:35

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