13 January 2012 / by Radmila Gurkova

Can...Auxiliary Verb subject + can + main verb

Can is an auxiliary verb, a modal verb:



  • talk about possibility and ability

  • make requests

  • asking for or giving permission


Can is invariable. CAN does not change. Remember that:

  • The main verb is always the bare infinitive.


Bare infinitive NEVER use CAN with TO

Correct - I can play the guitar

NOT - I can to play the guitar


Use of Can


can: Possibility and Ability


We use can to talk about what is possible, what we are able or free to do:

  • She can speak french

  • Peter can play the guitar


We can use CAN in the future

  • Sorry I cannot meet you today. But tomorrow I can come to the office


We use can for requests and orders (informal). We can use this to ask someone to do something.



  • Can you make a cup of tea, please.

  • Can you be quiet, please.


When we ask or give permission Can is informal



  • Can I go to the toilet?

  • You can go now.



Structure of Can


subject + can + main verb

I can swim

Can you swim?

I cannot swim or I can't swim


TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE



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