B1

S + was able to / managed to + V0

be able to và manage to

Explanation

Nói về MỘT lần làm được trong quá khứ thì dùng was able to hoặc managed to, không dùng could. could chỉ dùng cho khả năng chung kéo dài. Bẫy thường gặp: Một lần cụ thể thì could nghe sai: I could pass the exam ✗, I was able to pass the exam ✓.

Examples

I was able to finish on time.

Tôi kịp làm xong đúng hạn.

She managed to fix it herself.

Cô ấy tự sửa được.

He could swim when he was five.

Năm tuổi anh ấy đã biết bơi.

Practice

Test your understanding with a quick quiz

Learn “S + was able to / managed to + V0” effectively

The grammar point “S + was able to / managed to + V0” (be able to và manage to) is one of the key structures at CEFR 3. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.

Study tip: read the examples aloud many times to build a natural reflex. Then try making your own sentences for your own situations. Use the audio button to hear and practice accurate pronunciation.

You can also view the full “” lesson to understand the related grammar and vocabulary more deeply.

Frequently asked questions