ABILITY

How to express ability

• 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 pretty 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.

Can in the present

• I can speak good English.
• I can’t stand on my head.

Can in the past

• I was unable to visit him.
• I couldn’t eat at all when I was ill.

Can in the future

• 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.

Can in the past is was able or could

• 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.

Can in the future is will be able.

• When I finish my studies, I will be able to find a job.