A2 Grammar Lesson 5

Unit 5 – Grammar Rules

5A – can / can’t

Form:

We use can / can’t + verb (infinitive).

Subject Positive Negative
I / you / he / she / it / they / we can swim can’t swim

Important

  • The form of can / can’t is the same for all subjects.
  • ✔ He can drive.
  • ✘ He cans drive.
  • We don’t use “to” after can.
  • ✔ I can help.
  • ✘ I can to help.
  • can’t = cannot

Meanings of can / can’t

1. Ability

  • I can swim. (= I know how.)
  • She can play the piano.
  • He can’t cook.

2. Possibility

  • I can meet you today. (= it’s possible)
  • We can’t come tomorrow.

3. Permission

  • You can sit here. (= it’s OK)
  • You can’t park here. (= it’s not allowed)

4. Requests

  • Can you help me?
  • Can I use your phone?

Questions & short answers

  • Can you drive? → Yes, I can. / No, I can’t.
  • Can she come? → Yes, she can. / No, she can’t.

Quiz 1