Talking about Ability
Talking about Ability
How to Express Ability
To indicate that someone has the power or skill to do something, we use "can" and "be able to."
Examples:
- I can't help you. I am busy.
- I'm unable to help you.
- When I was young, I was able to earn my living quite well; I could work hard. Now I can't. I'm too old.
- I can stand on my head for five minutes.
- Can you speak Arabic?
- Yes, I can.
Expressing Ability:
In the Present:
To express ability in the present, use the following:
- I can speak English fluently.
- I can't stand on my head.
In the Past:
To express ability in the past, use "was able to" or "could":
- I was unable to visit him.
- I couldn't eat at all when I was ill.
In the Future:
To express ability in the future, use "will be able to":
- I will be able to buy a house when I get a good job.
- The teacher can assist you after class if you have any questions.
Things to Remember:
- "Can" is always followed by an infinitive without "to."
- Example: I can ride my bike and I can drive a car, but I can't drive a lorry.
- In the past, "can" is expressed as "was able to" or "could":
- Examples:
- When I was young, I was able to earn my living pretty well. Now I can't; I'm too old.
- I couldn't hear what he was saying.
- Examples:
- In the future, "can" is expressed as "will be able":
- Example: When I finish my studies, I will be able to find a job.