could

UK: kʊd | US: kʊd

Definition

  1. modal v. 1. past tense of "can," indicating ability or possibility in the past

  2. modal v. 2. used to express polite requests or suggestions

  3. modal v. 3. used to express hypothetical or conditional situations

Structure
c <old form of "can">ould <archaic past tense suffix>
Etymology

"Could" originated as the past tense of "can," derived from Old English cūþe, the past form of cunnan ("to know, be able"). The "-ould" suffix reflects a Germanic past tense marker (akin to "would," "should"). Over time, it evolved from expressing literal past ability to broader hypothetical or polite uses, retaining its auxiliary function in modern English.

Examples

  1. She could swim when she was five.

  2. Could you please pass the salt?

  3. If I had more time, I could finish the project.

  4. He could be at home by now.

  5. Could this be the solution we need?