could

其他意思

1. aux. 可以, 能

   You use could to indicate that someone had the ability to do something. You use could not or couldn't to say that someone was unable to do something.

   • For my return journey, I felt I could afford the extra and travel first class

2. You use could in questions when you are making a polite request or asking for permission to do something. Speakers sometimes use couldn't instead of `could' to show that they realize that their request may be refused.

   • Could I stay tonight?

3. You use could to say emphatically that someone ought to do the thing mentioned, especially when you are annoyed because they have not done it. You use why couldn't in questions to express your surprise or annoyance that someone has not done something.

   • We've come to see you, so you could at least stand and greet us properly

4. You say `I couldn't' to refuse an offer of more food or drink.[INFORMAL, SPOKEN]

   • `More cake?' - `Oh no, I couldn't.'