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could

 

Definitions from the Web

Could

Definition:

Could is the past tense of the modal verb "can." It is used to indicate past ability, possibility, permission, or to make a polite request.

Parts of Speech:

  • Auxiliary Verb: Could
  • Noun: (Informal) a potential or ability

Senses:

  1. Past Ability: Used to indicate a general or temporary ability in the past.
  2. Past Possibility: Used to express a possibility that did not happen in the past.
  3. Past Polite Request or Permission: Used to make polite requests or ask for permission in the past.
  4. Noun: (Informal) Potential or ability.

Examples:

  • As an Auxiliary Verb:
    She could swim when she was five years old.
    They could have won the game if they had played better.
    Could I borrow your pen, please?
  • As a Noun:
    His potential could bring him great success in the future.
    You should explore your abilities and see what you could achieve.

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