(countable) A can is a metal container, usually for holding food or drink. I drink cola from a can. Spaghetti hoops come in a can. Learn how to use ‘can’, ‘could’ and ‘be able to’ in this B1 Intermediate grammar lesson. Clear rules, charts and exercises. Practise now! The use of can to ask or grant permission has been common since the 19th century and is well established, although some feel may is more appropriate in formal contexts. May is relatively rare in negative constructions (mayn't is not common); cannot and can't are usual in such contexts. Define can. can synonyms, can pronunciation, can translation, English dictionary definition of can. to be able to, have the power or skill to: I can take a bus to the airport. Can is usually used in standard spoken English when asking for permission. 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. Canva is a free-to-use online graphic design tool. Use it to create social media posts, presentations, posters, videos, logos and more. Learn how to use CAN and CAN'T (CANNOT) in this English grammar lesson for beginners. We use can and can't to talk about ability, possibility, make requests, and ask for permission. CAN definition: to be able to; have the ability, power, or skill to. See examples of can used in a sentence. You use can to indicate that someone has the ability or opportunity to do something. Don't worry yourself about me, I can take care of myself. I can't give you details because I don't actually have any details. The United States will do whatever it can to help Greece. Used to indicate possession of a specified power, right, or privilege. The president can veto congressional bills.