can't
/kænt/contraction★Beginner
informal
A contraction of 'cannot', indicating inability or prohibition.
She can't swim very well.
She is not a strong swimmer.
You can't park here.
Parking is not allowed in this area.
💡
Commonly used in spoken and informal written English.
Collocations
can't helpunable to stop oneself from doing somethingcan't standstrongly dislike
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
can't be botheredphrase
too lazy to do something
can't waitphrase
very excited about something
💡Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal
Use 'cannot' in formal writing and 'can't' in casual speech or writing.
⚡Gold Rule
Contractions in Writing
In formal writing, avoid contractions like 'can't' and use 'cannot' instead.
📖Word Origin
A contraction of 'cannot', which itself comes from 'can' (Old English 'cunnan') and 'not'.
📝Usage Notes
Used in informal contexts; 'cannot' is more formal.
Word Breakdown
can
ability or permission
root't
not
suffixEnglish Dictionary