Legal Definitions - can

Definition: Can is a verb that means:

1. To have the ability or skill to do something. For example, "I can speak Spanish fluently."
2. To have permission to do something. For example, "You can't enter the building without a valid ID."

The word "can" is often used to express ability or permission in everyday conversations.

• "I can run a mile in under 10 minutes."
• "Can I borrow your pen for a moment?"
• "You can't smoke in this area."

The first example illustrates the ability meaning of "can" by showing that the speaker has the skill to run a mile in under 10 minutes. The second example illustrates the permission meaning of "can" by asking for permission to borrow a pen. The third example also illustrates the permission meaning of "can" by stating that smoking is not allowed in a certain area.