Where Can Dimples Be

Can is usually used in standard spoken english when asking for permission. The use of can to ask or grant permission has been common since the 19th century and is well established, although some feel may is more appropriate in formal contexts. Feb 8, 2025in this blog article we look at when and how you use the word can in english conversation.

Used to say that somebody knows how to do something she can speak spanish. "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.

Can synonyms, can pronunciation, can translation, english dictionary definition of can. I can take a bus to the airport. 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 your umbrella? 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 your tape recorder?

Learn about the modal verbs can and could and do the exercises to practise using them.