4.3: Can / Could / May

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Can / could = ability

Can = ability:

I can speak Spanish. [I know how to / I am able to]
She can ride a motorcycle.

Could = ability in the past:

When I was a child, I could run for hours. [Now that I’m older, I can’t because I get tired quickly!]

Can / may / could = permission

Can/May = permission

You can use a dictionary while in class.
You may not use your cellphone in class.

Could = permission in the past

When I was a child, I couldn’t stay up after 10pm.

Can = possibility

Can = possibility:

She can afford to pay $800 for rent.
She can’t afford to pay more than $800 for rent.
I can meet you on zoom at 3pm today.

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