Modal Verbs – CAN

MODAL VERBS – “CAN“

“CAN” is one of the most commonly used  modal verbs in English.  “CAN” is used with different meanings as a modal verb.

These are listed below;

• GENERAL ABILITY ( IN THE PRESENT )

“to be able to”

Example: He can speak five languages.

• PERMISSION ( INFORMAL )

“to be allowed to”

Example: Can I use your pencil?

• REQUEST ( INFORMAL )

“to request something”

Example: Can you make me tea?

• OFFER

“in polite offers of help”

Example: Can I help you with this?

• POSSIBILITY ( IN THE PRESENT )

“to express possibility”

Example: Smoking can cause canser.