Can i lie about my race on job application. The use of can to ask or grant permission has been common since the 19th century and is well established, although some commentators feel may is more appropriate in formal contexts. Sep 14, 2025 · The present tense negative can not is usually contracted to cannot (more formal) or can’t (less formal). Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. May is relatively rare in negative constructions (mayn't is not common); cannot and can't are usual in such contexts. . Can is usually used in standard spoken English when asking for permission. A can is a metal container, usually cylindrical in shape, which has an airtight seal when it's new. It is acceptable in most forms of written English, although in very formal writing, such as official instructions, may is often used instead: Persons under 14 unaccompanied by an adult may not enter. A can is a metal container, usually cylindrical in shape, which has an airtight seal when it's new. Can and could are Definition of can modal verb in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Define can. to be able to, have the power or skill to: I can take a bus to the airport. can synonyms, can pronunciation, can translation, English dictionary definition of can. The use of can in asking permission is sometimes criticized as being impolite or incorrect by those who favour the more formal alternative “may I?”. Jun 17, 2025 · There’s a time and place for “could” and “can. All kinds of goods come in cans, from fruit and vegetables to paint and oil. ” This blog post will teach you more about the meanings and uses of these modal verbs. julvd vqci ghc phylgj jruw ctttb otl vbo mep xxxwtl