Understanding the Versatile Uses of 'Can': Ability, Permission, Requests, and Possibility

Explore the diverse rules of 'can' in English, covering ability, permission, requests, and possibility in everyday language.

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The word "can" is used to express ability (e.g., "I can swim."), permission (e.g., "Can I leave early today?"), requests (e.g., "Can you pass the salt?"), or possibility (e.g., "It can rain tomorrow."). These rules make the word versatile in everyday communication.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the primary use of 'can' in English? 'Can' is primarily used to express ability, such as in the sentence 'I can swim.'
  2. Can 'can' be used to ask for permission? Yes, 'can' is often used to request permission, for example, 'Can I leave early today?'
  3. What are some examples of using 'can' for requests? You can use 'can' for requests like 'Can you help me with this?' or 'Can you pass the salt?'
  4. How does 'can' indicate possibility? 'Can' can also express possibility, as seen in statements like 'It can rain tomorrow.'