Could

Definition

Could is a modal verb expressing possibility, ability in the past, polite requests, or suggestions. It often functions as the past tense of "can" but is also used in present or future contexts to indicate possibility or conditional scenarios.

Parts of Speech

• Modal Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kʊd/
• Respelling: kuhd

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kʊd/
• Respelling: kuhd

Etymology

The word "could" originated from Old English "cūþe," the past form of "cunnan" (to be able). The spelling was later influenced by "would" and "should," evolving into its modern form "could" by the Middle English period.

Derivatives

• Can (verb)
• Couldn’t (contraction)
• Could’ve (contraction)
• Possibility (noun)
• Conditionality (noun)

Synonyms

• Might
• Would
• May

Antonyms

• Cannot
• Won’t
• Impossible

Usage

The modal verb "could" is used to indicate past abilities, polite requests, or hypothetical scenarios. For example, "She could swim when she was younger," or "Could you help me with this project?" It conveys a range of possibilities in both formal and informal contexts.

Related Terms

• Possibility: A situation that may occur or be true.
• Conditional: Dependent on certain conditions or outcomes.
• Permission: The act of allowing something.

Detailed Definitions

Modal Verb

• Expressing past ability: Refers to capability that existed in the past.
  • Example: "When he was young, he could run very fast."
• Indicating possibility or conditional scenarios: Suggests something that might happen under certain conditions.
  • Example: "If it rains, the event could be postponed."
• Making polite requests or suggestions: Used to ask for something politely or offer an idea.
  • Example: "Could you pass the salt?"