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

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 …

To describe a specific occurrence in the past, use was/were able to instead of could.

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.

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 …

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Oct 19, 2025 · 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 …

You use can to indicate that someone has the ability or opportunity to do something. Don't worry yourself about me, I can take care of myself. I can't give you details because I don't actually …

"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.

We sometimes use be able to instead of "can" or "could" for ability. Be able to is possible in all tenses - but "can" is possible only in the present and "could" is possible only in the past for ability.