können
Translation
can, to be able to, may
Examples
Kannst du schwimmen?
Can you swim?
Du kannst jetzt gehen.
You can go now.
Kannst du mir helfen?
Can you help me?
Grammar Patterns
((+infinitive)) to be able to do sth. I can cook well.
((sth.)) to know sth. He can speak German.
Similar Words
Synonyms: dürfen (to be allowed to), vermögen (to be able); Antonyms: müssen (to have to)
Etymology
From Old High German 'kunnan' (to know, be able). Cognate with English 'can'.
Memory Tips
'Kannst du...?' is a very common way to ask for a favour, similar to 'Can you...?' in English.