could
|could|
A2
/kʊd/
(can)
container or ability
Etymology
Etymology Information
'could' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'cūþe,' which was the past tense of 'cunnan,' meaning 'to know' or 'to be able to.'
Historical Evolution
'cūþe' transformed into the Middle English word 'coude,' and eventually became the modern English word 'could.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to know' or 'to be able to,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of indicating past ability or making polite requests.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Modal Verb 1
used to indicate possibility or ability in the past.
She could swim when she was 5.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Modal Verb 2
used to make polite requests or suggestions.
Could you pass the salt, please?
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35