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

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

Nov 8, 2018 · Learn how to use the modal verb COULD in English. You will learn the form, use and meaning.

You use could to talk about a possibility, ability, or opportunity that depends on other conditions. Their hope was that a new and better East Germany could be born.

"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 of "can."

COULD definition: a simple past tense of can. See examples of could used in a sentence.

We use could have to say that someone had the ability or opportunity to do something, but did not do it: She could have learned Swahili, but she didn't want to.

This lesson helps us understand when to use could in English. Could is one of the most commonly used modal verbs in English as it is used in a variety of situations.

Nov 1, 2025 · This comprehensive English grammar lesson teaches you ALL the different uses of the modal verb COULD with crystal-clear explanations, hundreds of examples, and practical exercises!