Cool MateMeaning of Can
used to say that it is possible for somebody/something to do something, or for something to happen
In simple words: to be able to do something
Can in a sentence
- I can swim very well.
- Can you help me with this problem?
- She can speak three languages.
- We can go to the park tomorrow.
- Can you see the stars at night?
- He can play the guitar beautifully.
- I can’t believe how fast he runs.
- They can finish the project by next week.
How to use Can
Use 'can' for ability or permission in neutral contexts. Avoid in very formal situations. Instead, use 'may' or 'might' for permission.
Grammar pattern
can + base form of verb
Memory hint
Remember 'can' as in 'I can' do something, imagine a person flexing their muscles.
Related words
Collocations with Can
- can do
- can see
- can go
- can make
- can help
Synonyms for Can
- be able to
- know how to
- be capable of
Common mistakes with Can
- Confusing 'can' with 'could' when talking about past ability
- Using 'can' for polite requests; use 'could' for more formality
- For permission, incorrectly using 'can' instead of 'may' in formal contexts
Can appears in
More words like Can
- AbandonB2
To leave someone or something and never return to them.
- AbilityA2
the fact that somebody/something is able to do something
- AbleA2
having the skill, intelligence, opportunity, etc. needed to do something
- AbroadA2
In or to a country that is not one's own.
- AbsoluteB2
total and complete
- AbsolutelyB1
used to emphasize that something is completely true
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Frequently asked questions about Can
What does Can mean?
to be able to do something
What is the definition of Can?
used to say that it is possible for somebody/something to do something, or for something to happen
How do you use Can in a sentence?
I can swim very well.
Can you give another example of Can?
Can you help me with this problem?
What are synonyms for Can?
Common alternatives include be able to, know how to, be capable of.
What is the opposite of Can?
Opposite meanings include cannot, unable.
What words go with Can?
It commonly pairs with can do, can see, can go, can make, can help.
What are common mistakes when using Can?
Confusing 'can' with 'could' when talking about past ability Using 'can' for polite requests; use 'could' for more formality For permission, incorrectly using 'can' instead of 'may' in formal contexts
How do you pronounce Can?
US: /["/kən//kæn/","/ˈkænɑːt/","/kænt/","/kəd//kʊd/","/ˈkʊdnt/"]/, UK: /["/kən//kæn/","/ˈkænɒt/","/kɑːnt/","/kəd//kʊd/","/ˈkʊdnt/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.
When should I use Can?
Use 'can' for ability or permission in neutral contexts. Avoid in very formal situations. Instead, use 'may' or 'might' for permission.
What CEFR level is Can?
"Can" is at A1 level on the CEFR scale.