Loading...
Loading...
To be able to do something; to have the ability or permission to do something.
She can swim very well.
She is able to swim very well.
Can I borrow your pen?
Am I allowed to borrow your pen?
As a modal verb, 'can' is followed by the base form of the verb (e.g., 'can run').
A metal container used for storing food or drink.
He opened a can of soda.
He opened a metal container of soda.
She donated a can of beans to the food drive.
She donated a metal container of beans to the food drive.
As a noun, 'can' can also refer to a container for other purposes, such as a can of paint.
Remember that 'can' is a modal verb and is always followed by the base form of another verb (e.g., 'can run,' not 'can running').
'Can' is used for both permission and ability. For example, 'Can I leave early?' (permission) and 'I can speak French.' (ability).
The verb 'can' comes from Old English 'cunnan,' meaning 'to know' or 'be able to.' The noun 'can' comes from Latin 'canna,' meaning 'reed' or 'tube.'
'Can' is used to express ability, permission, or possibility. It is often used in questions and negative forms (e.g., 'Can you help me?', 'I can't go.').