can … + infinitive

We use can / cannot ( can’t ):

1. to talk about abilities
2. To ask for permission

POSITIVE structure
Subject AUXILIARY Main VERB
(infinitive)
COMPLEMENTS
I
you
he,she, it ride a bike very well.
can
we speak english.
you
they
 NEGATIVE
Subject AUX not Main VERB COMPLEMENTS
(infinitive)
I
you
he,she, can Not ride a bike very well.
it

we ca n’t speak english.

you
they
? QUESTIONS
• Yes / no questions
AUXILIARY Subject Main VERB
(infinitive)
COMPLEMENTS
I
you
he,she, it ride a bike very well?
can
we speak English?
you
they

Short answers:
Yes, I can - No I cannot/can’t
Yes she can - no she cannot/can’t
• Wh-
Wh- questions
Wh- word AUXILIARY Subject Main VERB
(infinitive)
COMPLEMENTS
I
you
Where he,she, ride a bike very well.
When can it
Why
… we speak english.
you
they

answers:
Where can she ride a bike very well? - in the park
Why can you speak english? - because my parents are english