What does the underlined modal show in the sentence below?
With her sweet voice, Meghna could have become a fine singer, but she gave up music after Class 8.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → an ability that was not used
The clue is “but she gave up music after Class 8”. She did not become a singer.
| Option | Meaning and use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) a possible past action (not sure) | a past action the speaker is not sure about; here we are told that Meghna gave up music | Ravi could have missed the bus, but I am not sure. |
| (2) general ability in the past | takes could + base verb, not “could have + past participle (V3)” | At six, Jaya could sing every song in her music book. |
| (3) an ability that was not used (answer) | could have + V3: someone had the ability, but it was never used | Arjun could have become a good cricketer, but he stopped playing after school. |
| (4) a strong guess about the past | takes must have + V3 | The show must have ended, as the stage is empty. |