can

//kæn//
A1Frequency Level 1Neutral
Visual representation of can

modal verb

1

To be able to; to have the ability, power, or skill to do something.

She can speak three languages.

2

To be permitted to; to have permission to do something.

You can use my phone if you need to.

3

Used to indicate possibility or likelihood.

It can get very cold in winter here.

Synonym

Antonym

Noun

canSingular
cansPlural
1

A sealed metal container for food, drink, or other products.

I opened a can of soup for lunch.

2

A cylindrical metal container, typically used for storing or preserving goods.

She opened a can of soup for lunch.

Verb

canPresent tense
couldPast tense
1

To preserve food or drink by sealing it in a can or jar.

They can tomatoes every summer.

2

(slang) To dismiss or fire someone from a job.

They canned him for being late too many times.