Use 'can' to say that someone IS allowed to do something and 'cannot' or, 'can't,' to say that they do NOT have permission (are not allowed) to do something. Example sentences with the word can. When we want to express permission, prohibition (not allowing something), obligation or no obligation we use modal verbs. Modal Verbs CAN, Using and Example Sentences Ability He can speak five languages. 3. Could in the past means the general ability to do something. You will have to get official permission first. Jack will be able to come next week. She is able to speak five languages. Request Can you make me tea? MODAL VERBS —– “CAN” “CAN” is one of the most used modal verbs in English. NOTE: The future of 'be able to' is 'will be able to. How to use can in a sentence. Then, in the listening comprehension section, you will relate signs with meaning using Can for permission. Do you mind if I turn down the TV? “CAN” is used with different meanings as a modal verb. “Can” is an auxiliary verb ( modal auxiliary verb ). Permission – can, may, could 'Can' is most often used to ask for or give permission but 'may' and 'could' are also possible even though they are not used as often as 'can'. To express ability. He could swim when he was five. Did he give you permission to take that? CAN/COULD are modal auxiliary verbs. The three main uses of Can are: 1) ability 2) possibility and 3) permission. She begged permission to leave. 5. Can I take a look at your book? When asking and giving permission in English, you can use below phrases and expressions: Asking for permission: Can I use your pen, please? May I use your computer? Is it okay if I sit here? Do you mind if I use your phone? Example: Students can register for fall classes beginning next week. He can play tennis well. We include BE ABLE TO here for … Permission Can I use your bike? In reality, can likely has more use in the “permission” sense than is recorded, as it is more informal and so shows up in speech more frequently than may does. 152+24 sentence examples: 1. Can means to be (physically) able to do something OR to know how to do something.. He asked permission to leave the room. 2. First, you will read an extract about real people with superhuman abilities and answer some questions about it. They can come on Friday. We use COULD to: a) talk about past possibility or ability b) make requests. Both Can and Could are Modal Verbs. 4. 6. Use 'can' or 'be able to' to express an ability or possibility. Birds can fly. Can I sit here? “CAN” is one of the most commonly used modal verbs in English. May is the more formal word, and if you are at all concerned about being tut-tutted, a safe choice. In general Could is considered more polite (or formal) that Can.. CAN. Possibility Smoking can cause cancer. 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