American English
/ˈkʰæ.nɪŋ/
2 syllables · Stress the first syllable.
Related entry: can
to have the skill or ability to do something
Practice out loudto have the skill or ability to do something
I can drive.
Maria can speak three languages.
Put the verb directly after can: I can swim, not I can to swim. For a learned skill, Spanish often uses saber: I can swim = Sé nadar.
can drive · can swim · can speak English
[subject] can [verb]
[subject] can't [verb]
to have permission to do something
Guests can use the pool until 9 p.m.
You can take one brochure.
can use · can park · can stay
[person] can [verb] here
[person] can't [verb] here
used to ask someone to do something
Can you send me the address?
Can you turn down the music?
Can you...? often asks for help, not information about ability.
Can you [verb] [object]?
used to say that something is possible or sometimes happens
This road can be dangerous at night.
Prices can change quickly.
can be difficult · can happen · can change quickly
[thing] can be [adjective]
[thing] can [verb]
a container for waste
Please put the wrapper in the trash can.
to be very excited about something that will happen
I can't wait to see you.
to create a complicated problem by starting to deal with something
That question opened a can of worms.
For the modal meaning, use can with every subject: she can, not she cans. For the verb meaning “put food in a can,” write canned and canning with double n.