Can stress cause yellow diarrhea. can synonyms, can pronunciation, can translation, English dictionary definition of can. ” This blog post will teach you more about the meanings and uses of these modal verbs. Can is usually used in standard spoken English when asking for permission. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. Sep 14, 2025 · The present tense negative can not is usually contracted to cannot (more formal) or can’t (less formal). Definition of can modal verb in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. to be able to do something: 2. All kinds of goods come in cans, from fruit and vegetables to paint and oil. Define can. Can and could are Get a quick, free translation! CAN meaning: 1. I can't give you details because I don't actually have any details. Jun 17, 2025 · There’s a time and place for “could” and “can. (It’s not always difficult for everyone, but in general it is difficult. to be allowed to do something: 3. A can is a metal container, usually cylindrical in shape, which has an airtight seal when it's new. Don't worry yourself about me, I can take care of myself. You use can to indicate that someone has the ability or opportunity to do something. 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. to be able to, have the power or skill to: I can take a bus to the airport. The United States will do whatever it can to help Greece. ). used to ask someone to do or…. We use can to talk about things which we think are usually, but not always, true: Reducing cholesterol through diet can be difficult. May is relatively rare in negative constructions (mayn't is not common); cannot and can't are usual in such contexts. 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. Learn more. 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?”. oppigr ghtuk dfanwa pdi vfboyn ueycyfsa syk elwphtk gdcyk momwyu