Can or Can't in American Speech

by Vocafy 검증 완료

영어 (미국) A2 문항 15개 Words & expressions

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

1. 1. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

   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. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

   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. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

   On a crowded bus.

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

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

4. 4. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

   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. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

   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. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

   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. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

   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. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

   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. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

   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. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

    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. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

    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. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

    Talking about a visit.

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

    In a short negative answer, “can't” usually has a strong sound.

13. 13. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

    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. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

    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. 듣고 정답을 입력해 주세요。

    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.