Can-Cannot Rules

We use Can-Cannot rules when we don't have the ability, the time, or the will to do something. For example, I cannot sing. I do not have the ability or skill. I can't go with you.

We use Can when we have the ability, time, or will to do something. For example, I can play the guitar. (This means that I have the ability to play the instrument) OR I can go to the store later (I have the time to go soon) OR I can help you (I want to help you).

We use Cannot (or Can't) when we don't have the ability, the time, or the will to do something. For example, I cannot sing. (I do not have the ability or the skill). I can't go with you. (I don't have the will to accompany you). I can't travel until December. (I don't have the time to travel because I am busy working).

English Grammar Notes Cannot-Can't rules for Class 10(SLC)

1. Can=modal verb.

In English, Language Can is used to say that something is possible.

Can is the same for all First, Second, and Third Person/ Subjects.

The verb that follows Can is in infinitive without to:

• I can speak Nepali. (= it is possible for me to speak Nepali = I have the ability to speak Nepali)
• He can sing well.
• She can dance very well.

Negative Sentences:

Adding "not" after can to form one word: cannot result in forming negative sentences

We can also shrink the Cannot form can't. (can't = cannot)

• I cannot climb the tree. We can't go to watch the match today.
• He cannot speak German very well. She can't ride a horse.

Questions:

To form a 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 a laptop?
•  
• Can I go to the toilet, please?
• Can you speak Nepali?
• What can we do on Teachers Day?

You can use short answers like below:

• Can I look at it? Yes, you can.
• Can you play the guitar? No, I can't.

2. Impersonal Can

In some conditions, You can and Can you dance? are impersonal and refer to people in general.

• You can see many birds in this forest. (= people, in general, can see many birds in that forest)

It doesn't necessarily refer to you but people in general.

• You can't destroy public property.

Examples:

• I can travel in December. I cannot (can't) travel now.
• You can see the stars! You cannot (can't) touch the stars.
• He can be rude sometimes. He cannot (can't) hit his friends.
• She can play the guitar. She cannot (can't) play the flute.
• It can wait for an hour. It cannot (can't) be helped.
• We can try again later. We cannot (can't) go until 10.
• They can study after lunch. They cannot see the concert.