COULD definition: 1. past simple of "can", used to talk about what someone or something was able or allowed to do…. Learn more.

The meaning of COULD is —used in auxiliary function in the past, in the past conditional, and as an alternative to can suggesting less force or certainty or as a polite form in the present. How …

Mar 23, 2023 · When you’re talking about the possibility of something happening in the future, use can if something is very likely to happen. Could, on the other hand, should be used for things …

We use could to show that something is possible, but not certain: They could come by car. (= Maybe they will come by car.) They could be at home. (= Maybe they are at home.) We use …

Definition of could modal verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Used to indicate ability or permission in the past: I could run faster then. Only men could go to the club in those days. 2. Used with hypothetical or conditional force: If we could help, we would. …

Mar 28, 2024 · Can is used to talk about something that is possible now, or to ask for permission in a casual way. For example, “I can swim” shows ability, while “Can I leave early?” asks for …

Aug 26, 2022 · In this article, we’ll explain the differences between can and could, cover when and how both words should be used, and provide examples that show how they’re typically …

"Could" is a modal verb used to express possibility or past ability as well as to make suggestions and requests. "Could" is also commonly used in conditional sentences as the conditional form …

Mar 10, 2025 · At its core, “can” is all about present ability and permission. It’s the go-to modal verb when expressing what someone is capable of doing right now or generally. Ability: “I can …