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Synonyms for

Couldnt

Contraction / kʊd / Another word for couldnt — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Couldn't is a contraction of 'could not'. It is used to express the inability or impossibility of doing something.

Synonyms & similar words

couldn't

Synonyms by register

Formal

was not able to was incapable of did not have the capacity to

Informal

couldn't manage wasn't up to it didn't have it

Literary

lacked the power to was unable

Antonyms

able capable can possible competent powerful

Common collocations

  • couldnt believe
  • couldnt help
  • couldnt find
  • couldnt get
  • couldnt see
  • couldnt wait
  • couldnt understand

Word family

adverb couldn't

Usage note

Couldnt is a contraction of 'could not'. It expresses inability or a past possibility that did not occur. It is generally informal and should be avoided in very formal writing.

Compare "couldnt" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. I couldn't reach the top shelf.
  2. She couldn't solve the math problem.
  3. They couldn't attend the party.
  4. He couldn't find his favorite toy.
  5. We couldn't go to the park because of the rain.

Quotes

  • I couldn't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination. - Jimmy Dean
  • I couldn't wait for success, so I went ahead without it. - Jonathan Winters
  • I couldn't find the sports car of my dreams, so I built it myself. - Ferdinand Porsche

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the and that for you with was this are have not from

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