(Definition of couldn't from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)

The meaning of COULDN'T is could not.

Do you want to practise using the modals could and couldn't in English? We can use could and couldn't to talk about abilities in the past. I could swim when I was four. She couldn't ride a bike when she …

Sep 26, 2025 · We use could to talk about things we were able to do in the past. It’s the past form of can when we talk about ability. 👉 Think of it as “can in the past.” Examples: When I was 6, I could swim. …

This article will delve into the meanings, usage, differences, and practical applications of “could” and “couldn’t,” ensuring learners gain a thorough understanding to enhance their English proficiency.

Dec 1, 2014 · Can't is short for can not. "Can" is the indicative mood of the verb, and states actual fact. Couldn't is short for could not. "Could" is the subjunctive mood of the verb, and states conjecture, …

Apr 26, 2025 · When I was a student, I couldn’t speak a foreign language, but now I can! Could also can be used to talk about possibilty, but the exercises on this page just focus on past ability.

Couldn't is the usual spoken form of 'could not'. Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers

5 days ago · From could + n’t. couldn't. Could not (negative auxiliary). [1] You couldn’t lend me a lighter, could you? ‘Would you like another drink?’ ‘No thanks, I couldn’t.’.

CAN, CAN’T, COULD, COULDN’T What’s the difference between CAN and COULD? CAN and COULD are very similar in the English language. Both words are very common because they have many …