how can/could

phrase

1

—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?

2

—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?

3

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

And how can compliance systems verify the identity of software entities? — Sean Lee, Forbes.com, 30 Mar. 2026

After all, how can premium hikes be deemed inevitable when insurers’ profits are soaring? — Barbara Hoare, Chicago Tribune, 26 Mar. 2026

The animating question is, how could the family have allowed this to happen? — Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 26 Mar. 2026

When and how can Texans witness the interplanetary phenomenon? — Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 27 Feb. 2026