The use of can to ask or grant permission has been common since the 19th century and is well established, although some commentators feel may is more appropriate in formal contexts. …

Can is usually used in standard spoken English when asking for permission. It is acceptable in most forms of written English, although in very formal writing, such as official instructions, may …

Oct 31, 2025 · can (third-person singular simple present can, present participle (by suppletion) able, simple past could, past participle (obsolete) couth) (auxiliary verb, defective) To know …

Define can. can synonyms, can pronunciation, can translation, English dictionary definition of can. to be able to, have the power or skill to: I can take a bus to the airport.

Can definition: to be able to; have the ability, power, or skill to.. See examples of CAN used in a sentence.

Definition of can modal verb in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

"Can" is one of the most commonly used modal verbs in English. It can be used to express ability or opportunity, to request or offer permission, and to show possibility or impossibility.

To describe a specific occurrence in the past, use was/were able to instead of could.

The use of correct grammar, vocabulary and punctuation can make or break a sentence. In this article, we shall explore the difference between ‘can’ and ‘could’, their meanings, usage and …

Despite the insistence by some, that can means only “to be able” and may means “to be permitted,” both are regularly used in seeking or granting permission: Can (or May) I borrow …