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

Gaetz refused to cooperate with the investigation and abruptly resigned from Congress after the announcement of his nomination, ending the committee’s jurisdiction over him — though not the possibility that the report could still become public.

From Los Angeles Times

“If everybody jumps in, I think it could look markedly different in three to six months.“

From Los Angeles Times

The principal of Beverly Hills High School told students they could no longer ‘congregate, circle up, shout, jump, etc.,’ according to a message sent out to parents and students.

From Los Angeles Times

“I don't want there to be any limitation at all on what the Senate could consider,” Cornyn told reporters.

From Salon

Mass deportations would also likely trigger another round of inflation—the Peterson report believes that it could add up to 3 percent on top of whatever the baseline is.

From Slate

Related Words

• commit
• manage
• take care of