Do you want to talk about your talents and skills? “Can” is the simple, powerful word you need to express what you are able to do. Using “can” is one of the easiest ways to share your abilities with others. 💪
Function & Usage
We use the modal verb “can” to talk about ability. This includes skills we have learned, natural talents, and the general capability to do something.
- Skills & Talents: To say that you know how to do something.
Example: He can play the guitar. She can speak three languages. - General Abilities: To talk about what is possible for someone or something to do.
Example: Birds can fly. I can see the mountains from my window.
The Structure (Form)
“Can” is very easy because it never changes! It stays the same for all subjects (I, you, he, she, it, we, they). Always follow “can” with the base form of the main verb (e.g., swim, speak, run).
| Subject | Positive (+) | Negative (-) | Question (?) |
|---|---|---|---|
| I / You / He / She / It / We / They | can swim | cannot (can’t) swim | Can you swim? |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding “to” after “can”: Never use “to” with “can.” Incorrect: “I can to play the piano.” Correct: “I can play the piano.”
- Adding “-s” for he/she/it: “Can” never changes. Incorrect: “She cans cook well.” Correct: “She can cook well.”
Let’s see it in action! 🎬
Person A: Can you swim?
Person B: Yes, I can. My father taught me when I was young.
Person A: My brother is amazing. He can solve a Rubik’s Cube in under a minute.
Person B: Wow! I can’t do that. It’s too difficult for me.
Manager: Can you use Microsoft Excel?
Applicant: Yes, I can use it very well. I can also speak French.
Check Your Understanding! ✅
1. She dance beautifully.
2. I’m sorry, I hear you.
3. They speak Japanese fluently.
4. you help me with this box?
5. A fish swim, but it fly.
6. He ___ run very fast.
7. I ___ understand this question.
8. ___ you ride a bicycle?
9. My little sister ___ read yet.
10. We ___ see the show from here.
