The use of can to ask or grant permission has been common since the 19th century and is well established, although some commentators feel may is more appropriate in formal contexts. …

Can definition: to be able to; have the ability, power, or skill to.. See examples of CAN used in a sentence.

Aug 13, 2015 · 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 …

Define can. can synonyms, can pronunciation, can translation, English dictionary definition of can. to be able to, have the power or skill to: I can take a bus to the airport. She can paint very well. …

23 senses: 1. used as an auxiliary to indicate ability, skill, or fitness to perform a task 2. used as an auxiliary to indicate.... Click for more definitions.

Despite the insistence by some, that can means only "to be able'' and may means "to be permitted,'' both are regularly used in seeking or granting permission: Can (or May) I borrow …

Aug 20, 2025 · The present tense negative can not is usually contracted to cannot (more formal) or can’t (less formal). The use of can in asking permission is sometimes criticized as being …

Can definition: Used to request or grant permission.

Definition of can modal verb in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

CAN meaning: 1 : to be able to (do something) to know how to (do something) to have the power or skill to (do something) to be designed to (do something) sometimes used without a following …