could

[kʊd]

could Definition

• 1. used to indicate past ability or possibility
• 2. used to make a polite request or offer

Using could: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "could" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  When I was younger, I could run a mile in under six minutes.

• Example

  I could help you with that if you'd like.

• Example

  Could you please pass me the salt?

• Example

  I was wondering if you could lend me some money.

could Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for could

• might
• may
• was able to
• had the ability to
• would be able to

Antonyms for could

• couldn't
• cannot
• won't

Phrases with could

• could have

  used to indicate that something was possible in the past but did not happen

  Example

  If I had left earlier, I could have caught the train.

• could do with

  used to express a need or desire for something

  Example

  I could do with a cup of coffee right now.

• could well

  used to indicate that something is likely to happen

  Example

  If she keeps working hard, she could well become the manager someday.

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Summary: could in Brief

The modal verb 'could' [kʊd] has two main uses. Firstly, it can indicate past ability or possibility, such as 'When I was younger, I could run a mile in under six minutes.' Secondly, it can be used to make a polite request or offer, like 'Could you please pass me the salt?' 'Could' also appears in phrases like 'could have,' indicating something was possible in the past but did not happen.