could-do-with
Chunk: could do with
Meaning & Usage
Could do with is a very common, informal British and American phrase used to say that you need or want something. It is a softer, more conversational alternative to saying "I need" or "I want," and is frequently used when talking about food, rest, or improvements.
🧲 Common Collocates
- Physical Needs: could do with a drink, could do with a nap, could do with a cup of tea, could do with a holiday.
- Improvements (for objects): could do with a wash, could do with a coat of paint, could do with some cleaning.
- Intensifier: could really do with.
💬 Contextual Examples
- I am absolutely exhausted; I could really do with a long weekend.
- This living room could do with a fresh coat of paint before we sell the house.
- It's freezing outside. I could do with a hot cup of coffee right about now.
🎴 Interactive Web Practice
Practice 1: I am so tired after that meeting. I could really ______ with a nap.
Answer:
do Practice 2: Your car is filthy! It could do ______ a good wash.
Answer:
with Practice 3: We've been working for six hours straight; we ______ really do with a break.
Answer:
could