modal verb

can

can, be able to

I can swim.

I can swim.

Can I open the window?

Can I open the window?

((verb)) to be able to do (sth.) I can speak English.

((verb)) to be permitted to do (sth.) Can I ask a question?

Synonyms: be able to, may; Antonyms: cannot, can't

From Old English 'cunnan', meaning 'to know, know how to'.

Think of a 'can-do' attitude: 'Yes, I can!'

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.