Unit 28: CAN
Can is a modal verb. Unit 27 shows you how to make correct sentences with it. This unit shows you when you can use it.
Ability
GENERAL
EXAMPLES:
She can speak good English.
Kiwis are birds but they cannot fly.
NOTICE: cannot is one word
NOW
EXAMPLES:
Can you hear me?
I can't see anything. It's dark.
FUTURE
EXAMPLE: I'm afraid I can't see you this week but I can next week.
NOTICE: also be able to (Unit 36)
Possibility
GENERAL
EXAMPLE: Canada can be be very cold in the winter.
NOT POSSIBLE
EXAMPLES:
He can't be working now. It's much too late.
They can't have got lost. They know the way.
NOTICE: use must (Unit 33) for strong probability
Permission
STATEMENT
EXAMPLES:
You cannot drive without a licence.
Passengers can smoke outside of the terminal.
NOTICE: more friendly than may (Unit 30)
REQUEST
EXAMPLES:
Can I borrow your pen?
Can I have the red one please?
NOTICE: could (Unit 29) is more polite
Asking for help
EXAMPLES:
Can you give me a hand?
Can you tell me the time?
NOTICE: also could (Unit 29); also will (Unit 31)
Polite offers
EXAMPLES:
Can I help you?
Can I get you some food?