I can speak English.
- Language
- English
- Level
- A2
- Unit
- Modal verbs and imperatives
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
‘Can’ and ‘can’t’ are modal verbs in English. They are used to talk about ability (what you are able to do) and permission (what you are allowed to do).
When to use it
Use ‘can’ to say someone is able to do something, or to give or ask for permission. Use ‘can’t’ to say someone is not able to do something, or not allowed to do something.
Key forms
- I can swim.
- She can’t drive.
- Can you help me?
Examples
He can’t play the guitar.
Can you come to the party?
We can go now.
Tips
- ‘Can’ is always followed by the base form of the verb (no ‘to’).
- Don’t add ‘-s’ to ‘can’ for he/she/it.
- In questions, put ‘can’ at the beginning: ‘Can you...?’