how can/could

idiom

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

So, how can companies adapt to increasingly conscious consumers and meet them on their own terms? —Dax Dasilva, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025

But how can land be protected amid the rapid population growth, job creation and commercial development that has brought the state such economic success? —Molly Davis, The Tennessean, 11 July 2025

As consumers become more aware of worker conditions and how apparel is produced, how can the industry best spread the word on progress? —Lauren Parker, Sourcing Journal, 11 July 2025

So, how can you get started without a technical team or a huge financial budget? —Crystal Gilmore, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025