Modal Verbs: Understanding 'Can' and 'Can't'

• A modal is a word that comes before the main verb and gives the verb extra meaning.
• The modal "can" is a modal of ability, meaning you are able to do something.
• Modals are always followed by a base verb, which is a verb with no ending added to it.
• A base verb has no -s, -ed, or -ing ending.
• "Can" is used with a base verb to indicate someone is able to do something, e.g. "I can dance", "You can ride a bike", "He can play the guitar".
• "Can't" (short for "cannot") is used with a base verb to indicate someone is not able to do something, e.g. "You can't swim", "She can't play the piano", "They can't drive".
• "Can" is used with a subject and a base verb to ask if someone is able to do something, e.g. "Can you snowboard?", "Can he play baseball?", "Can the children ski?".
• In positive sentences, "can" is often pronounced as "ken" when speaking quickly.
• In negative sentences, "can't" is always stressed.
• In questions, "can" is pronounced as "ken", but in short answers, both "can" and "can't" are stressed.
• The correct pronunciation and usage of "can" and "can't" are important for effective communication.

Test your knowledge of modal verbs, specifically the usage and pronunciation of 'can' and 'can't' in sentences, including their ability to indicate capacity or inability. Learn how to form questions and negative sentences with these modals.