Modal verbsEnglish level A1
Can / Can't
Use can and can't for present ability, possibility, permission, and requests. It takes the base verb and never changes with the subject.
Rule
After can/can't, use the base verb without to. It does not change by subject (no -s) and does not need do/does.
Formula
| Positive (+) | Subject + can + V1 | I can swim.She can drive. |
|---|---|---|
| Negative (-) | Subject + can't / cannot + V1 | You can't smoke here.He cannot lift that. |
| Question (?) | Can + subject + V1? | Can you help me?Can she cook? |
In conversation
- ACan you help me with this box?
- BSure. I can carry it, but I can't lift the big one.
- ANo problem - thanks!
Common mistakes
Wrong: He can to drive.Correct: He can drive.No to after can.Wrong: She cans cook.Correct: She can cook.
Notes
- Cannot is the full form; can't is the short form
- It does not change: I can / he can (no -s)
- No do/does in questions
- Request: Can you...? = asking someone to do something
Practice
She can missing word very well.
missing word you help me with this?