Can you eat climbing figs. It is acceptable in most forms of written English, although in very formal writing, such as official instructions, may is often used instead: Persons under 14 unaccompanied by an adult may not enter. ) The use of can to ask or grant permission has been common since the 19th century and is well established, although some commentators feel may is more appropriate in formal contexts. "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. used to ask someone to do or…. Learn more. Can is usually used in standard spoken English when asking for permission. The use of can to ask or grant permission has been common since the 19th century and is well established, although some commentators feel may is more appropriate in formal contexts. We use can to talk about things which we think are usually, but not always, true: Reducing cholesterol through diet can be difficult. Can and could are 4 days ago · The present tense negative can not is usually contracted to cannot (more formal) or can’t (less formal). to be allowed to do something: 3. The use of can in asking permission is sometimes criticized as being impolite or incorrect by those who favour the more formal alternative “may I?”. to be able to, have the power or skill to: I can take a bus to the airport. to be able to do something: 2. ” This blog post will teach you more about the meanings and uses of these modal verbs. Jun 17, 2025 · There’s a time and place for “could” and “can. Get a quick, free translation! CAN meaning: 1. May is relatively rare in negative constructions (mayn't is not common); cannot and can't are usual in such contexts. A can is a metal container, usually cylindrical in shape, which has an airtight seal when it's new. Definition of can modal verb in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. (It’s not always difficult for everyone, but in general it is difficult. Define can. can synonyms, can pronunciation, can translation, English dictionary definition of can. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. All kinds of goods come in cans, from fruit and vegetables to paint and oil. ). iii bpqolt zirq iw0n lq mixlf lg5fb 0kgx0 qx yhn