ABILITY PERMISSION

Can /can’t

Expressing ability

We use the modal verb “Can” to express that we know how to do something. The negative form is “can’t” or “cannot” (more formal). “Can” and “can’t” are always followed by a verb in the infinitive.

Read the following sentences aloud.

My brother can play the piano.

Michael Phelps can swim very well.

The girl can ride a bike.

The babies can’t read.

He can’t run 10 km.

Can dogs speak?

No, they can’t.

Can cats climb trees?

Yes, they can.

Can you speak English?

weYes, you can.

I

Expressing permission

We also use can /can’t to ask for and give permission.

Can I go to the toilet, please?

Yes, you can.

Can I speak to Homer Simpson, please?

No, you can’t. He’s sleeping at the moment.

Questions

And we use “can” to ask somebody to do something! Can you …….., please?

Can you close the door, please?

Can you turn on the lights, please?

Can you pass me some water, please?