student asking question

Can I say "can last longer" instead of "could last longer"? Does it mean different one from original?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Unfortunately no. The meaning of the sentence would change slightly. We use the word "can" when speaking about a general truth; something likely to happen. "Could" is used as more of a suggestion; something is possible, but not likely to happen. Ex: I think we can do it. It shouldn't be that hard. Ex: A thunderstorm could hit during the winter if the weather conditions were just right.

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