We use can to make general statements about what is possible: It can be very cold here in winter. (= It is sometimes very cold here in winter.) You can easily get lost in this town. (= People often get lost in this town.) We use can't or cannot to say that something is impossible: That can't be true.

Understanding the Context

You cannot be serious. Level: intermediate. Should you water plants with warm or cold water? This guide explains why lukewarm water is best and when temperature matters most.

Key Insights

Canva is a free-to-use online graphic design tool. Use it to create social media posts, presentations, posters, videos, logos and more. Can is usually used in standard spoken English when asking for permission. 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. The use of can to ask or grant permission has been common since the 19th century and is well established, although some feel may is more appropriate in formal contexts.

Final Thoughts

May is relatively rare in negative constructions (mayn't is not common); cannot and can't are usual in such contexts. Learn how to use CAN and CAN'T (CANNOT) in this English grammar lesson for beginners. We use can and can't to talk about ability, possibility, make requests, and ask for permission. Uses of CAN and CAN'T in English | Grammar Lesson (Ability ... - YouTube In this blog article we look at when and how you use the word can in English conversation. Get free tips from an expert teacher of English for Adults, at the British Council