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Patryk Posted 21 years ago
Grammar

Differences between "be able to" and "can"

A weak question:
What are the differences between "be able to" and "can". Emotion: zip it!

thanks!
  

Top answer

A weak answer: "can" is a defective verb. It has no infinitive, no gerund, no past participle. Consequently, "be able" substitutes for "can" in those circumstances.

— CalifJim

  • A weak answer: "can" is a defective verb.
  • It has no infinitive, no gerund, no past participle.
  • Consequently, "be able" substitutes for "can" in those circumstances.
  • I can go.
  • *I hope to can go.
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3 Answers
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A weak answer:

"can" is a defective verb. It has no infinitive, no gerund, no past participle. Consequently, "be able" substitutes for "can" in those circumstances.

I can go.
*I hope to can go.
I hope to be able to go.
*I remember canning to run a mile easily when I was younger.
I remember being able to run a mile easily when I was younger.
*I have c
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I think what you said is right, thanks.

In addition, is "be able to" refered to the ability to do something? But "can" does not has that meaning?
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On the contrary, one of the main meanings of "can" is "has the ability" or "is able".

I can bench 250 pounds. = I am able to bench 250 pounds. = I have the ability to bench 250 pounds.

CJ
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