Can & Can't: Expressing Ability

A simple lesson for beginners

Read this story about Oumaima!

Oumaima is a little girl who loves to play. She says, "I can jump high and I can sing a song. But I can't fly like a bird or touch the sky."

Use "Can" for Ability

Use can to say that you or someone else has the ability to do something. It means "it is possible."

  • I can swim.
  • She can speak English.
  • Birds can fly.

Use "Can't" for Inability

Use can't to say that you or someone else is not able to do something. It means "it is not possible."

  • I can't fly.
  • He can't play the piano.
  • Fish can't walk on land.

Mini Quiz!

Choose 'can' or 'can't' to complete each sentence.

1. A bird ______ fly high in the sky.

2. A fish ______ walk on land.

3. I ______ read this book because the light is too dim.