can
/kæn/verb★Intermediate— be able to
informal
to be able to; have the ability or capacity to do something
I can finish the report by tomorrow.
I am able to finish the report by tomorrow.
Can you lift this box?
Are you able to lift this box?
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Used as a modal verb; pronunciation often reduced to /kən/ in fast speech.
informal
to be allowed to; give permission
You can leave early today.
You are permitted to leave early today.
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When expressing permission, tone and context clarify meaning.
informal
a metal container used for storing liquids or food
Pass me that can of soup.
Pass me that metal container of soup.
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Pronounced /kæn/; plural is "cans".
informal
to preserve food by sealing it in a metal container
We can the tomatoes to keep them fresh.
We preserve the tomatoes by sealing them in cans.
English Dictionary