Значение could в русском языке

• 0 used as the past form of 'can' to talk about what someone or something was able or allowed to do -- прош. вр. гл. can

  • I couldn't see what he was doing.

  • You said we could watch television when we'd finished our homework.

• 1 used to talk about what is possible or might happen -- может, мог бы

  • The baby could arrive any day now.

  • This kind of crime could easily be prevented.

  • She could have been seriously injured.

• 2 used to ask someone politely to do or provide something -- вы не могли бы …? можно мне …?

  • Could you lend me £5?

  • Could I have another drink?

• 3 used to ask politely for permission to do something -- можно мне …? могу я …?

  • Could I speak to Mr Davis, please?

• 4 used to make a suggestion -- вы могли бы …

  • You could try painting it a different colour.

• 5 used when you feel so happy, sad, angry, etc that you would like to do something -- со словами, выражающими эмоции, передает желание, склонность готов был, хотелось

  • I was so grateful I could have kissed her!