Can is usually used in standard spoken English when asking for permission. It is acceptable in most forms of written English, although in very formal writing, such as official instructions, may …

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. May is relatively …

used to say that somebody knows how to do something She can speak Spanish. Can you cook? I could drive a car before I left school.

CAN definition: to be able to; have the ability, power, or skill to. See examples of can used in a sentence.

You use can to indicate that someone has the ability or opportunity to do something. Don't worry yourself about me, I can take care of myself. I can't give you details because I don't actually …

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 …

"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.

Definition of can modal verb in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

I can't hear - can you turn the sound up? I can carry both bags - they're quite light. You can sing lower than me.

CAN definition: 1. to be able to do something: 2. used to request something: 3. used in polite offers of help: . Learn more.