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Anonymous Posted 13 years ago
Grammar
"Can" for a future possibility
I have learned that "may" is used for a current possibility and a future possibility. For example,
"The road may be blocked."
And then, I was wondering if we also can say that "can" functions the same way or it is used only for a current possibility? Although I can find some explanations that 'may' is used for both, but I have never seen that "can" is used for a future possibility, but I think it is also possible.
What do you native English speakers think? Thank you so much as usual and have a good day.
"The road may be blocked."
And then, I was wondering if we also can say that "can" functions the same way or it is used only for a current possibility? Although I can find some explanations that 'may' is used for both, but I have never seen that "can" is used for a future possibility, but I think it is also possible.
What do you native English speakers think? Thank you so much as usual and have a good day.
Top answer
That is an interesting question. I have tried various examples, and I think it works both ways. It is clearer if we talk about an individual actor.
- That is an interesting question.
- I have tried various examples, and I think it works both ways.
- It is clearer if we talk about an individual actor.
- A person is able to do something either now or in the future.
- For example: I can block this road by stepping off the curb.
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1 Answers
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That is an interesting question. I have tried various examples, and I think it works both ways.
It is clearer if we talk about an individual actor. A person is able to do something either now or in the future. For example:
I can block this road by stepping off the curb. (I am able to do so now).
I can block this road tomorrow if I can borrow some sheep. (I might be able
It is clearer if we talk about an individual actor. A person is able to do something either now or in the future. For example:
I can block this road by stepping off the curb. (I am able to do so now).
I can block this road tomorrow if I can borrow some sheep. (I might be able
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