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Could have vs could have been

Both "could have" and "could have been" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Could have" is used to talk about possibilities or past abilities, while "could have been" is used to refer to something that was possible in the past.

Last updated: March 25, 2024 • 794 views

Could have

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to talk about possibilities or past abilities.

Use "could have" to express past possibilities or abilities. It is often followed by a past participle.

Examples:

  • I could have gone to the party if I had known about it.
  • She could have been a doctor if she had pursued medicine.
  • They could have won the game if they had played better.
  • He could have finished the project on time if he had worked harder.
  • We could have helped you if you had asked for assistance.
  • Could have been anything, really.
  • Could have been a kid inside.
  • Could have gotten off with a slap on the wrist.
  • Could have been house priestess few years time.
  • Could have a very good effect on you.
  • Could have beaten around the bush a little.
  • I mean, our driver Could have dumped the body anywhere.
  • Could have sworn I parked right around here.
  • Could have been a wrench or something.
  • Could have told you she was trouble.
  • Could have been an integrity check.
  • Could have figured into his plan.
  • Could have eaten shellfish or peanuts.
  • Could have been what incited today's incident.
  • Could have been switched long ago.
  • Could have been anyone, at any time.
  • Could have been a couple places.
  • Could have met the caller there.
  • Could have brain leaking from my ear.
  • Could have been anyone who knew.

Alternatives:

  • might have
  • should have
  • would have

could have been

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to something that was possible in the past.

Use "could have been" to talk about something that was possible in the past. It is often followed by a past participle.

Examples:

  • He could have been a great musician if he had practiced more.
  • The team could have been champions if they had won the last game.
  • She could have been a successful writer if she had pursued her passion for writing.
  • It could have been a wonderful experience if the weather had been better.
  • The project could have been completed on time if there had been no delays.
  • It could have been a business lunch.
  • But a body could have been wrapped in something.
  • You shouldn't have gone alone, it could have been dangerous.
  • - She could have been a powerful ally.
  • His daughter's murder could have been retribution.
  • Aid granted under this scheme could have been granted from 1984.
  • That could have been last week, last night.
  • Or he could have been planted there for us to find.
  • Tripp goddard could have been attacked by more than one person.
  • It could have been ripped off the victim.
  • It could have been touched by any number of people before that night.
  • Well, it could have been washed anywhere by the water.
  • He has so many enemies, it literally could have been anyone.
  • It could have been shaft, dolemite...
  • Our suspect could have been there, followed Brooke and Lewis back to their hotel room.
  • All this could have been ours if only you'd just...
  • We could have been breaking and entering.
  • That... that ring could have been for you.
  • Attacker could have been interrupted before he could nick it.
  • Anybody nearby could have been exposed.

Alternatives:

  • might have been
  • should have been
  • would have been

Related Comparisons

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