Can Can’t ESL

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Grammar Rules (Can/Can’t) – Can and can’t are modal auxiliary verbs in English that indicate ability or possibility. Here are some rules to keep in mind:

• Can is used to express the ability to do something in the present or future. Can’t is the negative form of can and is used to express the inability to do something.
• Can is also used to make requests, give permission, or offer help. Can’t can be used to refuse permission or to say that something is not possible.
• Can and can’t are always followed by the base form of the verb (the infinitive without “to”).

Examples:

• I can swim. (ability in the present)
• She can speak French fluently. (ability in the present)
• We can go to the park tomorrow. (ability in the future)
• He can’t play the piano. (inability in the present)
• They can’t come to the party tonight. (inability in the future)
• Can you lend me some money? (request)
• Can I borrow your pen? (request)
• You can go home early today. (permission)
• I’m sorry, you can’t take pictures in this museum. (refusal of permission)
• I can’t come to the meeting tomorrow. (impossibility)

Learn how to properly use can and can’t by using our free worksheets below. Practice makes perfect!

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