could've

Verb

could

1. Used as a past subjunctive (contrary to fact).
   • "If I'd had a paddle I could've spun by that dashed root," Meekins said, feeling some apology due for the mishap. "When I first climbed out of that fool creek I thought my arm had got twisted off, but I guess it ain't."1921, William Alexander Fraser, Red Meekins, George H. Doran Company, →LCCN, →OCLC, →OL, page 32
2. Used to politely ask for permission to do something.
   • Could I borrow your coat?
3. Used to politely ask for someone else to do something.
   • Could you proofread this email?
4. Used to show the possibility that something might happen.
   • Even without hovering drones, a lurking assassin, a thumping score and a denouement, the real-life story of Edward Snowden, a rogue spy on the run, could be straight out of the cinema. But, as with Hollywood, the subplots and exotic locations may distract from the real message: America’s discomfort...2013 June 29, “Travels and travails”, in The Economist, volume 407, number 8842, page 55
5. Used to suggest something.
   • You could try adding more salt to the soup.

See all 6 meanings of could