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UK//ðeɪ ˈkʊdnt//US//ðeɪ ˈkʊdnt//

Meaning of They couldn't

A phrase indicating inability in the past.

In simple words: They were not able to.

They couldn't in a sentence

  • They couldn't finish the project on time.
  • Despite their efforts, they couldn't get tickets.
  • They couldn't understand the instructions.

How to use They couldn't

Used to express inability or impossibility in past situations. Avoid in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

they + couldn't + verb

Memory hint

Imagine someone trying but failing — 'they couldn't do it!'

Related words

Collocations with They couldn't

  • they couldn't find
  • they couldn't believe
  • they couldn't see

Synonyms for They couldn't

  • they were unable to
  • they failed to
  • they didn't have the capability to

Common mistakes with They couldn't

  • Using 'could' instead of 'couldn't' for negatives.
  • Confusing 'couldn't' with past perfect forms.
  • Omitting the subject 'they' when used in conversation.

They couldn't appears in

They couldn't in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about They couldn't

What does They couldn't mean?

They were not able to.

What is the definition of They couldn't?

A phrase indicating inability in the past.

How do you use They couldn't in a sentence?

They couldn't finish the project on time.

Can you give another example of They couldn't?

Despite their efforts, they couldn't get tickets.

What are synonyms for They couldn't?

Common alternatives include they were unable to, they failed to, they didn't have the capability to.

What words go with They couldn't?

It commonly pairs with they couldn't find, they couldn't believe, they couldn't see.

What are common mistakes when using They couldn't?

Using 'could' instead of 'couldn't' for negatives. Confusing 'couldn't' with past perfect forms. Omitting the subject 'they' when used in conversation.

How do you pronounce They couldn't?

US: //ðeɪ ˈkʊdnt//, UK: //ðeɪ ˈkʊdnt//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use They couldn't?

Used to express inability or impossibility in past situations. Avoid in very formal writing.