Form: can + bare infinitive
Can is a modal verb. It is the same for all persons, and is always followed by the bare infinitive (no "to").
| Form | Example |
|---|---|
| Positive: subject + can + verb | I can speak French. · She can drive. |
| Negative: subject + can't + verb | He can't swim. · They can't come tonight. |
| Question: Can + subject + verb? | Can you play the piano? · Can she help? |
| Short answers: | Yes, I can. · No, I can't. |
can't = cannot
"Can't" is the contraction of "cannot" (one word). Both are correct: "I cannot swim" = "I can't swim". In speech and informal writing, use can't.
Three main uses
| Use | Key idea | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Ability | something you know how to do (skill) | I can cook Italian food. · She can't read music. |
| Permission | asking or giving permission (informal) | Can I use your phone? · You can leave early today. · You can't park here. |
| Requests | asking someone to do something | Can you open the door? · Can you speak more slowly, please? |
Could = more polite:
"Could you help me?" is more polite than "Can you help me?" Both are correct. Use "could" in formal situations or when being extra polite.
Exercises
Choose the correct option.
1. My little sister ___ tie her shoelaces. She's only two.
2. "___ I sit here?" "Of course you can!"
3. ___ you speak any other languages apart from English?
4. You ___ use your phone during the exam. It's not allowed.
5. ___ you turn down the music? I'm trying to sleep.