Could

Pronunciation

• IPA: /kÊŠd/
• Rhymes: -ÊŠd

Alternative forms

• cou’d obsolete

Origin

From Middle English coude, from Old English cuþ, preterite form of cunnan ("to be able"). The addition of the silent 'l' was likely a misappropriation attempting to normalize with modal verbs will/would and shall/should.

However, while the letter l was historically pronounced in the latter two, can never did have an l sound in it.

Verb

1. could

   (simple past of can)
1. Used as a past indicative.Before I was blind, I could see very well.
2. Used as a past subjunctive (irrealis).I think he could do it if he really wanted to.I wish I could fly!
2. Used to politely ask for permission to do something.
   Could I borrow your coat?
3. Used to politely ask for someone else to do something.
   Could you proofread this email?
4. Used to show the possibility that something might happen.
• 2013-06-29, Travels and travails, Even without hovering drones, a lurking assassin, a thumping score and a denouement, the real-life story of Edward Snowden, a rogue spy on the run, could be straight out of the cinema. But, as with Hollywood, the subplots and exotic locations may distract from the real message: America’s discomfort and its foes’ glee.
5. We could rearrange the time if you like.
6. Used to suggest something.
   You could try adding more salt to the soup.

Derived terms

• could've
• couldn't (negative form of could)
• couldst (archaic second-person of could)

Related terms

• can
• should
• would

Anagrams

• cloud