can
auxiliary verb
to be able to; have the ability, power, or skill to.
have could
-
present perfectof can.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Leaving through neighboring Colombia, as many opposition leaders in the past have, could also be difficult.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 7, 2025
Ashton said: "The squad Sharks have could steamroller most teams. If they decide to take it on, they could get to the final with ease."
From BBC ● Dec. 6, 2024
“So there was this thought that the strong maternal instincts that sea otters have could translate to the surrogacy in care.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 11, 2024
Maybe if I’d had more than a passing knowledge of vampires, the allegory could have could have been helpful to me — if not helpful, just comforting.
From Washington Post ● Nov. 14, 2022
I thought as I looked at it, what a transfiguring effect a statue like that might have, could it be removed to Paris or Berlin.
From My Impressions of America by Margot Asquith
