The use of can to ask or grant permission has been common since the 19th century and is well established, although some feel may is more appropriate in formal contexts. May is relatively rare in …

Can is usually used in standard spoken English when asking for permission. It is acceptable in most forms of written English, although in very formal writing, such as official instructions, may is often …

You use can to indicate that someone is allowed to do something. You use cannot or can't to indicate that someone is not allowed to do something. Can I really have your jeans when you go? We can't …

used to say that it is possible for somebody/something to do something, or for something to happen. I can run fast. Can you call back tomorrow? He couldn't answer the question. The stadium can be …

CAN definition: to be able to; have the ability, power, or skill to. See examples of can used in a sentence.

Define can. can synonyms, can pronunciation, can translation, English dictionary definition of can. to be able to, have the power or skill to: I can take a bus to the airport.

Mar 14, 2026 · The present tense negative can not is usually contracted to cannot (more formal) or can’t (less formal). The use of can in asking permission is sometimes criticized as being impolite or …

Feb 8, 2025 · In this blog article we look at when and how you use the word can in English conversation. Get free tips from an expert teacher of English for Adults, at the British Council

Learn about the modal verbs can and could and do the exercises to practise using them.

"Can" is one of the most commonly used modal verbs in English. It can be used to express ability or opportunity, to request or offer permission, and to show possibility or impossibility.