CAN - CAN NOT

Can is a modal verb. Can is used to express ability or to say that something is possible. Can is the same for all subjects. We don't add an 'S' in the third person (like other verbs)
The verb that comes after Can is in the infinitive without to:

• I can speak Spanish. (= it is possible for me to speak Spanish = I have the ability to speak Spanish)
• He can swim well.
• We can see my neighbour in the garden.
• They can play the guitar.

Negative

To form the negative we add "not" after can to form one word: cannot.We can also contract the negative to form can't. (can't = cannot)

• I cannot play the piano. We can't go to the cinema tonight.
• She cannot speak French very well. He can't drive a car.

QuestionsTo from the question we change the position of the subject and the auxiliary verb.

The main verb is still in the infinitive without to.

• Where can I buy an ice-cream?
• Can I go to the party, please?
• Can you speak Japanese?
• What can we do on Saturday?

Remember that you can use short answers:

• Can I sit here please? Yes, you can.
• Can you speak Chinese? No, I can't

CLICK HERE to practice