Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Could
Could
(k??d)
, imp.
of
. Can
[OF.
coude
. The l
was inserted by mistake, under the influence of should
and would
.] Was, should be, or would be, able, capable, or susceptible. Used as an auxiliary, in the past tense or in the conditional present.
Webster 1828 Edition
Could
COULD
, pron. COOD. [The past tense of can, according to our customary arrangement in grammar; but in reality a distinct word, can having no past tense. Could, we receive through the Celtic dialects.]1.
Had sufficient strength or physical power. A sick man could not lift his hand. Isaac was old and could not see. Alexander could easily conquer the effeminate Asiatics.2.
Had adequate means or instruments. The men could defray their own expenses. The country was exhausted and could not support the war.3.
Had adequate moral power. We heard the story, but could not believe it. Th intemperate man could have restrained his appetite for strong drink. He could have refrained, if we would.My mind could not be towards this people. Jeremiah 15.
4.
Had power or capacity b the laws of its nature. The tree could not grow for want of water.5.
Had competent legal power; had right, or had the requisite qualifications. Formerly, a citizen could not vote for officers of government without the possession of some property. AB could not be elected to the office of senator, for want of estate. BC, not being the blood of the ancestor, could not inherit his estate.6.
Had sufficient capacity. The world could not contain the books. John 21.7.
Was capable or susceptible, by its nature or constitution, as of some change. He found a substance that could not be fused.8.
Had adequate strength or fortitude; as, he could not endure the pain or the reproach.9.
Had motives sufficient to overcome objections. He thought at first he could not comply with the request; but after consideration he determined to comply.10.
Had competent knowledge or skill. He could solve the most difficult problems.Definition 2024
could
could
English
Alternative forms
- cou’d (obsolete)
Verb
could
- simple past tense of can
- Before I was blind, I could see very well.
- conditional of can
- Used as a past subjunctive (contrary to fact).
- I think he could do it if he really wanted to.
- I wish I could fly!
- Used to politely ask for permission to do something.
- Could I borrow your coat?
- Used to politely ask for someone else to do something.
- Could you proofread this email?
- Used to show the possibility that something might happen.
- 2013 June 29, “Travels and travails”, in The Economist, volume 407, number 8842, page 55:
- 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.
- We could rearrange the time if you like.
-
- Used to suggest something.
- You could try adding more salt to the soup.
- Used as a past subjunctive (contrary to fact).
Derived terms
Related terms
See also
- Appendix:English modal verbs
- Appendix:English tag questions