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"could not find" vs "could not found"

The correct phrase is "could not find." The verb "find" should be in the base form after modal verbs like "could." "Could not found" is incorrect because "found" is the past participle form of the verb, which is not suitable in this context.

Last Updated: March 26, 2024

could not find

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to express the inability to locate something in the past. It is the correct form to use after modal verbs like "could."

Examples:

  • I could not find my keys this morning.
  • She could not find the book she was looking for in the library.
  • We could not find a suitable solution to the problem.
  • The search party could not find any survivors in the wreckage.
  • He could not find his way back to the campsite.

could not found

This phrase is incorrect in English. The verb form "found" is not appropriate after the modal verb "could."


Alternatives:

  • could not locate
  • could not discover
  • could not uncover
  • could not track down
  • could not retrieve

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