could

American  

[kood, kuhd] / kʊd, kəd /

auxiliary verb

1. a simple past tense of can.

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.

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could British  

/ 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

   could I see you tonight?

   she'd telephone if she could

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

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could Idioms  

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

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Usage

See care.

Etymology

Origin of could

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

Example Sentences

To raise the prices even higher at the gas station, he’d have to buy new pumps, an investment he’s not sure he could afford now.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

A significant portion of that month’s net job reductions came from striking health care workers, whose work stoppages meant their employers could not include those jobs in the BLS’ surveys.

From Slate • Apr. 3, 2026

"Always my wish is that Rodri could stay as long as possible in this club because he is an incredible, top player but the life of everyone is everyone's."

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

One analyst thinks Aehr could announce an additional $30 million to $50 million in orders in the next two months.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

We joined the stream of people making their way to the stage area, trucks backing up as close as they could get for tailgate seating.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith

Related Words

• commit
• manage
• take care of