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EN
could
Definitions
(2)
1
Used
to
indicate
a
possibility
or
potential
in
the
past
,
or
to
suggest
a
hypothetical
situation
.
She
could
have
been
a
great
singer
if
she
had
pursued
it
.
If
we
had
more
time
,
we
could
visit
the
museum
.
He
could
have
called
,
but
he
didn't
.
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2
Used
as
a
polite
form
to
make
requests
or
suggestions
.
Could
you
please
pass
the
salt
?
Could
we
meet
tomorrow
to
discuss
this
?
Could
you
help
me
with
my
homework
?
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Kids' explanation
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Word Origin
Language
Old English
Original word
cūþe
Originally meant
was able, knew how to
Background
The word 'could' comes from the Old English 'cūþe', which meant 'was able' or 'knew how to'. It evolved over time to express possibility and polite requests in English.