Common Uses of Can

  1. Indicates ability or possibility, meaning “can” or “be able to”.

    I can run fast. I can run fast.

    Can you call back tomorrow? Can you call back tomorrow?

2. Indicates knowledge of how to do something, meaning “know how to”.

She can speak Spanish. She can speak Spanish.

Can he cook? Can he cook?

3. Indicates permission, meaning “may”.

You can take the car, if you want. You can take the car, if you want.

We can’t wear jeans at work. We can’t wear jeans at work.

4. Used for requesting permission, meaning “may”.

Can I read your newspaper? Can I read your newspaper?

Can I take you home? Can I take you home?

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