May is relatively rare in negative constructions (mayn't is not common) Cannot and can't are usual in such contexts. Can is usually used in standard spoken english when asking for permission 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. You use can to indicate that someone has the ability or opportunity to do something
Don't worry yourself about me, i can take care of myself I can't give you details because i don't actually have any details The united states will do whatever it can to help greece. Can synonyms, can pronunciation, can translation, english dictionary definition of can To be able to, have the power or skill to I can take a bus to the airport.
Can (or may) i borrow your tape recorder? The present tense negative can not is usually contracted to cannot (more formal) or can’t (less formal) 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.?”. Definition of can modal verb in oxford advanced american dictionary Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. Have the ability, power, or skill to.
See examples of can used in a sentence. To describe a specific occurrence in the past, use was/were able to instead of could. A can is a metal container, usually cylindrical in shape, which has an airtight seal when it's new All kinds of goods come in cans, from fruit and vegetables to paint and oil.
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