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Course: French English Spanish Greek
Explanations in: Greek English Spanish French
A1

Can and the imperative

Ability, permission, and giving orders or advice.

Can / can't

Can is a modal verb: the same form for every person, followed by the base form without «to», questions and negatives without «do».

  • She can swim.
    ability
  • Can I open the window?
    asking for permission
  • I can't hear you.
    can + verb of perception

The imperative

Base form with no subject: Sit down. Open the door. Be careful! Negative with don't: Don't worry. Don't be late. For suggestions including yourself: let's: Let's go! Let's not argue.

Test yourself

  1. Ask if someone plays the piano (ability).
    Show answer
    Can you play the piano?
  2. Correct: She can to speak Spanish.
    Show answer
    She can speak Spanish.
  3. Tell someone not to worry.
    Show answer
    Don't worry!
  4. Suggest going to the cinema together.
    Show answer
    Let's go to the cinema!