Can or Can't in American Speech

by Vocafy Terverifikasi

Inggris (AS) A2 15 pertanyaan Words & expressions

Explore the sound and meaning of “can” and “can't” in short, everyday American English examples.

1. 1. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

   Two friends at home.

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   • Can you help me? Yes, I can.

   At the end of a short answer, “can” usually has a clear, strong sound.

2. 2. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

   At the park.

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   • I can't run. My leg hurts.

   “Can't” is the short form of “cannot.” We often use it when speaking.

3. 3. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

   On a crowded bus.

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   • Can I sit here? The other seats are taken.

   “Can I...?” is a common way to ask for permission.

4. 4. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

   After shopping.

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   • I can carry this bag. It's light.

   Before a verb like “carry,” “can” often has a short, weak sound.

5. 5. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

   At a party.

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   • I can't hear you. The music is too loud.

   In American speech, the “t” at the end of “can't” is not always easy to hear.

6. 6. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

   In class.

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   • You can use my pen. I have another one.

   Here, “can” gives permission. It is not about someone's skill.

7. 7. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

   Outside an apartment.

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   • I can't open the door. I don't have the key.

   A reason after “can't” helps make the negative meaning clear.

8. 8. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

   Two people in a room.

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   • Can you close the window? It's cold in here.

   “Can you...?” can be a polite request, not just a question about ability.

9. 9. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

   Planning a trip.

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   • We can't take the bus. It doesn't stop near the beach.

   “Can't” can describe a problem with a plan, not only something a person cannot do.

10. 10. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

    Making plans with a friend.

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    • Can I call you tonight? Sure, I can talk after dinner.

    “Sure” is a friendly way to say yes to a request.

11. 11. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

    Outside a school.

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    • You can't park here. This space is for the school bus.

    Here, “can't” means something is not allowed.

12. 12. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

    Talking about a visit.

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    • Can you come on Friday? No, I can't. I have to work.

    “Can't” always has a strong vowel sound, and at the end of a short answer it is especially clear.

13. 13. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

    Deciding where to eat.

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    • We can eat outside if it stops raining. Let's wait a little.

    “If” shows that the plan depends on the weather.

14. 14. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

    In the kitchen.

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    • I can't reach the top shelf. Can you get that bowl for me?

    Giving a reason before a request helps the other person understand why you need help.

15. 15. Dengarkan lalu ketik jawabannya.

    Getting ready for a picnic.

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    • I can bring the drinks, but I can't bring the food. My fridge is empty.

    “But” connects what the speaker can do with what they cannot do.