Pronunciation

/kæn/

Definitions

• Verb: To have the ability or possibility; to be able to. For example: “She can swim very well.”
• Modal auxiliary verb: Expresses ability, permission, possibility, or necessity. For example: “I can do it if you help me.”
• Adverb: In a manner indicating ability or capability. For example: “He can run fast.”

Phrases

• “Be able to do something” expresses capability.
• “Can you please…?” is a request for assistance.
• “She can’t believe her luck” means she finds something hard to comprehend.

Example Sentences

• Verb: “He can fix the broken bike.”
• Modal auxiliary verb: “If it rains, we can reschedule the picnic.”
• Adverb: “She can dance gracefully.”

Synonyms

• Can do
• Is capable of
• Has the ability to
• May
• Might
• Be able to (informal)

Antonyms

• Cannot
• Cannot do
• Is unable to

Usage Notes

• “Can” is often followed by the infinitive form of a verb (e.g., “can swim”).
• It’s commonly used in questions, but can also be used as a statement (e.g., “I can finish this project on time”).
• The contracted form “can’t” means “cannot.”