Definitions, translations, synonyms, pronunciations, examples, and grammar insights - all in one complete resource. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. A simple past tense of can. Master the word could in english: See examples of could used in a sentence. Definition of could modal verb in oxford advanced learners dictionary. Could is also used to talk about ability in the present, but it has a special meaning. The meaning of could is —used in auxiliary function in the past, in the past conditional, and as an alternative to can suggesting less force or certainty or as a polite form in the present. · learn 8 expert ways to use could in english—past abilities, polite requests, regrets, and more—with real examples and clear practice tips. · learn the difference between can vs. If you say that someone could do something, you mean that they have the ability to do it, but they dont in fact … Could and how to use each of them in a sentence, with examples of each word used correctly. Could expresses possibility, while would expresses certainty and intent. A good way to remember the differences between these two words is simply to bring each word back to its root verb. · we use could have to say that someone had the ability or opportunity to do something, but did not do it: Past simple of can, used to talk about what someone or something was able or allowed to do…. She could have learned swahili, but she didnt want to.