Talking about ability
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 ...