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Anonymous Posted 20 years ago
Grammar

Another "able to" question

Why can't we say "This is able to be done"? Why must we use CAN there?
  

Top answer

Ability is a quality (and be able is an activity) of the doer. I am able to read. I am able to do this.

— Mister Micawber

  • Ability is a quality (and be able is an activity) of the doer.
  • I am able to read.
  • I am able to do this.
  • Can means possibility: This book can be read.
  • This can be done.
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2 Answers
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Ability is a quality (and be able is an activity) of the doer. I am able to read. I am able to do this.

Can means possibility: This book can be read. This can be done.
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<Ability is a quality (and be able is an activity) of the doer. I am able to read. I am able to do this.

Can means possibility: This book can be read. This can be done.>

I can read. I can do this.

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