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Can and can’t
A1 A1 grammar · lesson 13 of 24
We use can to talk about what we are able to do, and to ask for things politely. It is one of the easiest verbs in English because it never changes.
Rule
Can is the same for every person. After can, use the base verb (no -s, no to).
| Positive | Negative | Question |
|---|---|---|
| I can swim. | I can’t (cannot) swim. | Can you swim? |
| She can drive. | She can’t drive. | Can she drive? |
| They can cook. | They can’t cook. | Can they cook? |
Short answers: Yes, I can. / No, I can’t. Do not repeat the main verb in the short answer.
When do we use can?
- Ability (we are able to do it): Ali can speak four languages.
- Permission (it is OK): You can sit here. You can’t park here.
- Requests (asking for something): Can you help me, please? Can I have a glass of water?
Mia can play the guitar.
I can’t find my keys.
My grandmother can’t use a computer.
Can you see the sea from your window?
Can Tom ride a bike? Yes, he can.
We can meet at six.
Can I open the window?
Students can’t use phones in the exam.
Pronunciation
We can add well to talk about good ability: She can sing very well. I can’t cook well.
In positive sentences, can is short and weak: I c’n swim. Can’t is long and strong: I caan’t swim. Listen for the «t» and the long sound.
Common mistakes
✗ He cans play tennis.
✓ He can play tennis.
✗ I can to speak English.
✓ I can speak English.
✗ Do you can help me?
✓ Can you help me?
✗ She can’t swims.
✓ She can’t swim.