could

[ kood; unstressed kuhd ]

auxiliary verb

1. a simple past tense of can ¹.
2. (used to express possibility):

   I wonder who that could be at the door. That couldn't be true.

3. (used to express conditional possibility or ability):

   You could do it if you tried.

4. (used in making polite requests):

   Could you open the door for me, please?

5. (used in asking for permission):

   Could I borrow your pen?

6. (used in offering suggestions or advice):

   You could write and ask for more information. You could at least have called me.

could

/ kʊd /

verb

1. used as an auxiliary to make the past tense of can 1
2. used as an auxiliary, esp in polite requests or in conditional sentences, to make the subjunctive mood of can 1

   she'd telephone if she could

   could I see you tonight?

3. used as an auxiliary to indicate suggestion of a course of action

   you could take the car tomorrow if it's raining

4. often foll by well used as an auxiliary to indicate a possibility

   he could well be a spy

Usage Note

See care.

Word History and Origins

Origin of could¹

First recorded in 1450–1500; alteration of late Middle English coude, coud, Old English cūthe; modern -l- from would ¹, should

Word History and Origins

Origin of could¹

Old English cūthe; influenced by would , should; see can ¹

Idioms and Phrases

see can (could) do with ; see with half an eye, could . Also see under can ; couldn't .

Example Sentences

They scored seven tries but could have added many more as Kolisi, twice, and Fassi were held up over the line.

From BBC

Chances are low of flooding or any other significant issues in Southern California, forecasters said, though roads could become slick and snarl traffic.

From Los Angeles Times

To my seven-year-old mind, they had already achieved the most significant fame that a kid from the Houston suburbs could reasonably measure: they had been animated guest stars on "Scooby-Doo."

From Salon

Although Kennedy will need to be confirmed by the Senate to secure a leadership role at the HHS, some believe his influence could lead to deregulation that could make psychedelics more widely available.

From Salon

But there were things we could have done better.

From Salon

Related Words

• commit
• manage
• take care of