In summary, while "coulda," "woulda," and "shoulda" are used informally, they never correctly function as "of" statements. The correct forms are always based on "have." It's best to stick with the full phrases in formal writing and speech.
Here’s the breakdown:
"Woulda" as in "would have": "Woulda" is a casual spoken contraction of "would have." This phrase indicates what someone would have done under different circumstances. It often reflects regret or a hypothetical situation.
Example: "I woulda gone if I knew." (Expanded: "I would have gone if I knew.")
would without have - Indicates a conditional situation, a polite request, or a future action in relation to a past event. It often reflects what someone desires or intends to do under certain conditions.
Example: "I would go to the party if I were invited." (This suggests that attending the party depends on receiving an invitation.)
"Coulda" as in "could have": "Coulda" is an informal contraction of "could have." This phrase suggests a possibility or ability that was available in the past but not acted upon.
Example: "I coulda gone to the party if I had known." (Expanded: "I could have gone to the party if I had known.")
could without have - Expresses possibility, ability, or permission. It indicates something that is possible or someone’s capability to do something.
Example: "I could help you with that." (This implies that I have the ability to help.)
"Shoulda" as in "should have": "Shoulda" is a casual contraction of "should have." This phrase expresses a recommendation or obligation that was not fulfilled. It often conveys regret about not doing something that one thinks would have been better.
Example: "You shoulda told me earlier." (Expanded: "You should have told me earlier.")
should without have - Indicates obligation, recommendation, or advisability. It suggests what is the right or best course of action.
Example: "You should eat more vegetables." (This implies that eating more vegetables is advisable for health.)