KERO-TV: Study Shows Cats Know Your Voice And Can Tell When You’re Talking To Them Study Shows Cats Know Your Voice And Can Tell When You’re Talking To Them The use of can to ask or grant permission has been common since the 19th century and is well established, although some feel may is more appropriate in formal contexts. May is relatively rare in negative constructions (mayn't is not common); cannot and can't are usual in such contexts. You use can to indicate that someone is allowed to do something.

Context Explanation

You use cannot or can't to indicate that someone is not allowed to do something. Can I really have your jeans when you go? We can't answer any questions, I'm afraid. Used to indicate possession of a specified power, right, or privilege.

Insight Material

The president can veto congressional bills.