can
/kæn/ ES
/kən/ MX
Translation
To be able to do something, or to be allowed to do it.
Grammar
Examples
swim very .
"Can" shows that you are able to swim.
help , please?
You are asking if the other person is able to help.
Children play park.
Here "can" shows the children are allowed to play.
Used in
Grammar articles
(12)Articles in English: a, an, the and the zero article
Conditional sentences in English: the four types explained
Future tense in English: will, going to and more explained
Gerund and infinitive: which verb form comes next?
English grammar test: 30 questions with answers (A2-B2)
Modal verbs in English: rules, examples and how to use them
Passive voice in English: rules, examples and when to use it
Phrasal verbs in English: rules, examples and how to use them
Prepositions in English: place, time and movement explained
Present continuous tense: form, spelling and uses
Reported speech in English: backshift, questions and commands
English tenses explained: all 12 with a master table
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Go to my review queueThis word is part of lesson 2.