can3
Pronunciation: /kæn; weak form kən/
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Spanish translation of can
v mod (past could)
When can means to be capable of or to be allowed to, it is translated by poder: he can't eat no puede comer; can you come out tonight? ¿puedes salir esta noche? When can means to know how to, it is translated by saber: can you swim? ¿sabes nadar?; she can already read and write ya sabe leer y escribir. When can is used with a verb of perception such as see, hear, or feel, it is often not translated: can you see her from here? ¿la ves desde aquí?; she couldn't feel anything no sentía nada.
- 1 (indicating ability) poder*; (referring to particular skills) saber* she couldn't answer the question = no pudo contestar la pregunta can you swim? = ¿sabes nadar?
- 3 a (indicating, asking etc permission) poder* can I come with you? = ¿puedo ir contigo? b (in requests) poder* can you turn that music down, please? = ¿puedes bajar esa música, por favor? c (in offers) can I help you? = ¿me permite?; (in shop) = ¿lo/la atienden?, ¿qué desea? can I carry that for you? = ¿quieres que (te) lleve eso? d (in suggestions, advice) can't you give it another try? = ¿por qué no lo vuelves a intentar?