could

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /kʊd/
• SAMPA: /kUd/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

Verb

Present can

Past could

Negative couldn't

1. (modal) If you could do something, you were able to do it.

   When I was younger, I could run a five-minute mile.

2. (modal) If you could something, but you don't know if you want to, you have the option of doing do it.

   She could do her math or go to the game.

Synonyms

• (were able to): was able to/were able to

Antonyms

• couldn't

Related words and phrases

• ability
• able
• capable
• option

See also

• modal
• should
• would