Can: cómo expresar habilidades en inglés

Master the modal verb can with clear rules and real examples. Learn how to express abilities, give or deny permission, state a general truth, and talk about a possibility using a single, easy structure that never changes with the subject.

What does can mean and when do you use it in English?

The transcript explains four common uses of can with simple examples. Keep these meanings clear to avoid mistakes.

• Abilities: what someone is able to do. Example: "I can speak English."
• Permission: what is allowed or not allowed. Example: "You can't park here. You are not allowed or permitted to park here."
• General truth: something that can be true sometimes. Example: "Dogs can bite."
• Possibility: something that may happen. Example: "It can rain tomorrow."

Key takeaway: the same modal verb covers multiple functions, but the context shows the meaning.

How do you form affirmative sentences with can for abilities?

Use can with all personal pronouns and keep the main verb in the base form (no -s, no conjugation). This is consistent and simple.

Which personal pronouns use can without changes?

• I, you, he, she, it, we, they.
• There is no special S, no conjugation, and no transformation.
• Example pattern: "I can dance," "she can dance," "they can dance."

What is the sentence structure with can?

• Structure: subject + can + base verb (ability) + complement.
• Examples:
• "I can dance very well."
• "She can dance very well."
• Note: do not say "She can dances." Use the base verb after can.

When can you use verbs of perception with can?

We also use can with verbs of perception to refer to the five senses. These highlight natural abilities connected to seeing, tasting, touching, hearing, and smelling.

• "I can see you."
• "I can taste the ice cream."
• "I can touch the grass."
• "I can hear the conversation."
• "I can smell the flower."

These examples reinforce that after can the verb stays in the base form.

Want to practice? Share in the comments abilities you have using can: include a verb of perception or any other action, for example, "I can hear music clearly."