We use the modal verbs can, could and be able to + verb infinitive to talk

about ability.

Heres an overview, with examples:

PRESENT PAST

can could
We use can when we speak about We use could when we speak about
general ability in the present. general ability in the past.

Tommy can swim. Picasso could paint when he was

I can play the guitar. Can you play? two.
I could swim before I could walk.

The negative of can is can't (cannot): The negative

I can't ski and I can't skate. of could is couldn't (could not):
I couldn't swim until I was ten.

We also use can to speak We often use was able to to speak

about specific situations in the about about a specific situation in
present: the past:
I can hear you, but I can't see you. We fixed the car and then we were
Can you hear me? Yes, I can. able to drive home.

We prefer could to speak about a

specific situation in the past when we
use these verbs: see, hear, feel,
smell, taste, remember, believe,
understand, decide.
They could smell smoke.
I could understand him perfectly.

Questions about ability in the Questions about ability in the past:

present: Could you write before you started
How many languages can you speak? school?
Can you name all the capitals of Could you ride a bike when you were
Europe? small?

How to express ability

To express that someone has the power or skill to do something, can and be
able are used.

Examples:

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.

Expressing ability

In the present:

Express ability in the present as follows:

 I can speak good English.

I can't stand on my head.

In the past

Express ability in the past as follows

I was unable to visit him.

I couldn't eat at all when I was ill.

In the future

Express ability in the future as follows

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.

Things to remember:

Can is always followed by an infinitive without "to."

Examples:
I can ride my bike and I can drive a car, but I can't drive a lorry.

Can in the past is was able or could

Examples:
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.

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