A1 · Lesson 17 · 20 min
Can for ability and permission
In this lesson
- I can talk about what I am able to do.
- I can ask for and give permission with can.
Grammar in context
Maya is at the community centre after school. She can play the guitar, but she cannot swim. She asks the teacher, “Can I use the music room?” The teacher says, “Yes, you can.”
Which sentence talks about ability, and which sentence asks for permission?
Can for ability
Use can to say that someone has the ability to do something. Put can after the subject, then use the base form of the verb. The verb does not change with he, she or it.
- I can cook pasta.
- Leo can speak two languages.
Negative ability
Use cannot or can't to say that someone is not able to do something. Do not use do or does with can. After can't, use the base form, not to + verb or an -s form.
- We cannot drive yet.
- My sister can't dance.
Questions and short answers
For questions, put can before the subject: Can you...? Use can for ability and for permission when the situation is clear. Short answers are Yes, I can. or No, I can't.
- Can Omar ride a bike? Yes, he can.
- Can I sit here? No, you can't.
Common mistakes
Compare the incorrect and corrected forms.
Avoid
She can sings very well.
Use
She can sing very well.
Use the base verb after can; do not add -s.
Avoid
Do you can use my phone?
Use
Can you use my phone?
Make questions with can before the subject.
Put it into practice
Try the exercises, write your own examples and check your understanding.