how can/could

idiom

—used to show that one thinks that someone has done or said something shocking or wrong

"We don't need his help anyway." "How can you say that?!"

How could she just walk away from her children like that?

—used to express doubt that something will happen, is possible, etc.

How could I (ever/possibly) leave this job?

How can I (ever/possibly) thank you?

informal

—used to show disappointment in someone's actions, thoughts, words, etc.

He threw away my gift? Oh, how could he?

Examples of how can/could in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

If your own system doesn’t know why your data isn’t accurate, how can a business owner be expected to succeed? —

Anna Covert, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024 Perceiving the loneliness that colors the story and being aware of Mishima’s awful demise four years later, how can the reader fail to be moved by a poignancy that transcends the text! —

Deborah Treisman, The New Yorker, 27 Oct. 2024 How do these beliefs influence our cultural and business landscape, and how can their synergy inspire a more resilient and prosperous society? —

Forbes, 16 Oct. 2024 What is the biggest challenge for small businesses across the country and how can it be solved? —

Abc News, ABC News, 16 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for how can/could

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“How can/could.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/how%20can%2Fcould. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

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