top of page

'Be able to' vs 'Can' - Difference


What is the difference between 'be able to' and 'Can'?


The difference between "be able to" and "can" lies in their usage, formality, and nuances in specific situations. Both express ability or capacity, but they are often used in different contexts and can have slightly different meanings.



Differences


Flexibility


"Can" is a modal verb and used in present form. It's not conjugated in other tenses and modal verbs.


I can swim.


I can solve this problem.



"Be able to" is a phrase that combines to be with able to, making it more flexible. It can be conjugated in various tenses and modal verbs: will be able to (future), was able to (past), have been able to (present perfect), might be able to, etc.


I will be able to swim faster after more practice.


He was able to solve the problem last night. 


He should be able to fix the issue by tomorrow.


I might be able to help you with your homework.


They have been able to solve the problem together.



Future Ability


"Can" is less commonly used for future scenarios, but it may appear in informal contexts to indicate general possibility or planned events.


I can come to the meeting tomorrow.


We can meet next Monday if you are available.


I hope, I can travel internationally after my graduation.



For future abilities, "will be able to" is the preferred structure. It's used to express an ability that is expected or predicted to occur in the future. It often implies a sense of certainty.


After a few lessons, you will be able to swim confidently.


I will be able to travel internationally after my graduation.


They will be able to access the new features next month.



Formality


"Can" is commonly used in everyday, informal conversation because it’s short, direct, and sounds natural in spoken language.


I can speak Spanish.


We can meet later if you're free.



"Be able to" is slightly more formal and is often preferred in writing, formal contexts, and more structured spoken communication.


We are able to provide additional support if required.


He was able to secure funding for the new initiative.



Emphasis


"Can" is typically used to describe a general or natural ability often without much emphasis.


I can swim quite well.


She can speak three languages.



"Be able to" emphasizes achieving or gaining the ability, especially after effort.


He was able to finish the marathon despite the injury.


After months of practice, I am finally able to drive on my own. 



Specificity


"Can" often expresses general possibility, ability or permission.


Anyone can learn a new language. 


You can sometimes spot dolphins near the coast.


People can change their habits if they’re determined.



"Be able to" is more common for one-time achievements or specific situations where someone successfully does something in challenging circumstances.


After some practice, he will be able to learn Japanese. 


After the storm passed, they were able to resume construction.


Due to the new software, we are able to complete tasks much faster.

1 view0 comments

Comments


bottom of page