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could
[kood, kuhd]
auxiliary verb
a simple past tense of can.
(used to express possibility).
I wonder who that could be at the door. That couldn't be true.
(used to express conditional possibility or ability).
You could do it if you tried.
(used in making polite requests).
Could you open the door for me, please?
(used in asking for permission).
Could I borrow your pen?
(used in offering suggestions or advice).
You could write and ask for more information. You could at least have called me.
could
/ ʊ /
verb
used as an auxiliary to make the past tense of can 1
used as an auxiliary, esp in polite requests or in conditional sentences, to make the subjunctive mood of can 1
could I see you tonight?
she'd telephone if she could
used as an auxiliary to indicate suggestion of a course of action
you could take the car tomorrow if it's raining
(often foll by well) used as an auxiliary to indicate a possibility
he could well be a spy
Usage
51Թ History and Origins
51Թ History and Origins
Origin of could1
Idioms and Phrases
Example Sentences
Port Talbot and Bristol are the likely locations for the turbines, with the hope that they could be up and running within seven years.
West Mercia Police said the force was unable to provide any more information as "this could prejudice a live complaint which is currently being reviewed".
So far, there is no indication of where the fault lies, and it could take months before we have an answer.
The India management have indicated he may only play three of the five Tests, though the extra rest period after the first and third Tests could mean Bumrah sneaks in a fourth.
"Facing clear evidence of peril, we cannot wait for the final proof - the smoking gun - that could come in the form of a mushroom cloud," Bush said in an October 2002 televised speech.
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