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. May is relatively rare in …

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 …

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The comprehensive definition of can. Includes pronunciation, synonyms, etymology, and usage examples to help you master this word.

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 your umbrella?

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.

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

Learn about the modal verbs can and could and do the exercises to practise using them.

Look up CAN, Can, can, or -can in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.

We sometimes use be able to instead of "can" or "could" for ability. Be able to is possible in all tenses - but "can" is possible only in the present and "could" is possible only in the past for ability.