Definition / Explanation
We use can to talk about ability and simple possibility. It is common for saying what someone knows how to do, such as I can swim or She can drive. After can, the verb stays in the base form. The form of can does not change with he, she, or it, which makes it easier than many other verbs.
Key Rules
- Use can + base verb: can swim, can drive.
- The form is the same for all subjects: I can, she can, they can.
- The negative form is cannot or can't.
- Questions use inversion: Can you swim?
- Do not use to after can.
Examples
- I can swim.
- She can speak Spanish.
- We can't come today.
- Can he drive?
- My phone can play music.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ I can to swim. -> ✅ I can swim.
- ❌ She cans cook very well. -> ✅ She can cook very well.
- ❌ Do you can help me? -> ✅ Can you help me?