English Profile

can · modal verb

/kæn/Full view

can (ABILITY)

A1 to be able to

Dictionary examples:

Can you drive?

She can speak four languages.

I can't read that sign over there - what does it say?

Learner example:

It was difficult to join two words of English correct[l]y. Now I can speak. (Skills for Life (Entry 1); A1; Somali)

can (REQUEST)

A1 used to request something

Dictionary examples:

If you see Adrian, can you tell him I'll be in London next weekend?

Can I have a glass of water?

Learner example:

So please, can you make me a big sala[d]? (Skills for Life (Entry 1); A1; Slovak)

can (OFFER)

A1 used in polite offers of help

Dictionary example:

Can I help you with those bags?

Learner example:

Can I help you? (Skills for Life (Entry 1); A1; Lithuanian)

can (POSSIBILITY)

A1 used to talk about what is possible

Dictionary example:

You can get stamps at the post office.

Learner example:

You can make a quick snack, for example a sandwich. (Skills for Life (Entry 1); A1; German)

can (PERMISSION)

A2 to be allowed to

Dictionary examples:

Can I go now?

You can't park here.

Learner example:

And if you want, you can bring pencils or pens. (Key English Test; A2; Catalan)

can (SURPRISE)

B1 used to show surprise or lack of belief

Dictionary examples:

You can't possibly be hungry already!

Can you believe it?

Learner example:

In fact, the highest tree there is almost 30 met[er]s tall! Can you believe that? (Preliminary English Test; B1; Portuguese)

can (TYPICAL)

B2 used to talk about how someone often behaves or what something is often like

Dictionary example:

She can be really rude at times.

Learner example:

When you choose to travel by car there can be a lot of traffic. (First Certificate in English; B2; Dutch)

can (SOMETIMES HAPPENING)

B2 used to say that something sometimes happens or is true

Dictionary examples:

Smoking can cause cancer.

The nights can be very cold.

Learner example:

But overworking is also bad. It has lots of disadvantages, and can cause lots of problems, including health problems. (First Certificate in English; B2; Portuguese)