Fill in the blanks with the correct modal verbs: a) you please pass me the salt? (can/could) b) She speak five languages fluently. (can/could) c) I borrow your pen? (can/could) d) He swim when he…

a) **Could** you please pass me the salt? *(polite request)*

b) She **can** speak five languages fluently. *(present ability)*

c) **Could** I borrow your pen? *(polite request)*

d) He **could** swim when he was five years old. *(past ability)*

e) **Could** you please be quiet? *(polite request)*

f) They **cannot** afford a new car. *(present inability)*

g) She **can** dance beautifully. *(present ability)*

h) **Could** you help me with this problem? *(polite request)*

i) He **could** drive a car when he was sixteen. *(past ability)*

j) **Could** you please open the window? *(polite request)*