I Modal Verb Kəd Kʊd Hear Phone Show

• she said that she couldn't come.
• i couldn't hear what they were saying.
• sorry, i couldn't get any more.
• could i use your phone, please?

could

Verb Forms

1. used as the past tense of ‘can’
• She said that she couldn't come.
• I couldn't hear what they were saying.
• Sorry, I couldn't get any more.
2. used to ask if you can do something
• Could I use your phone, please?
• Could we stop by next week?
3. used to politely ask somebody to do something for you
• Could you babysit for us on Friday?
4. used to show that something is or might be possible
• I could do it now, if you like.
• Don't worry—they could have just forgotten to call.
• You couldn't have left it on the bus, could you?
• ‘Have some more cake.’ ‘Oh, I couldn't, thank you (= I'm too full).’
5. used to suggest something
• We could write a letter to the director.
• You could always try his home number.
6. used to show that you are annoyed that somebody did not do something
• They could have let me know they were going to be late!
7. used to emphasize how strongly you want to express your feelings
• I'm so fed up I could scream!
8. used to say that you need or would like to have something
• I could do with a drink!
• Her hair could have done with a wash.