# do with

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/do-with
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to need or want something because it would be helpful or pleasant right now.

For teachers: to require or benefit from something; typically used with 'could' or 'can' to express a desire or necessity for a specific object or action.

## Examples

- I could really do with a cup of coffee.
- After that long walk in the rain, we could all do with a warm shower and some dry clothes.
- The local library is looking quite run down and could certainly do with a significant injection of funding from the council.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I do with a break." but "I could do with a break." — this phrase requires a modal verb like 'could' to express the sense of needing or wanting something.

## Usage notes

- almost always used with the modal verbs 'could' or 'can' and followed by a noun phrase.
- Teaching tip: point out that this phrase is distinct from 'have to do with' (concerning) and 'do without' (manage in the absence of); it functions as a polite or indirect way to express a need.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.