Pronunciation coach
Can
Sounds like
KAN
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Simple meaning
What does Can mean?
Can means to be able, or a metal container.
Dictionary definition
to be able to do something; as a noun, a metal container for food or drink.
Example sentences
Can in a sentence
easy
I can read this sentence.
medium
We opened a can of soup for lunch.
hard
The word can changes meaning depending on whether it shows ability or names a container.
Synonyms
Words like Can
able toUse when can shows ability.
tinA container for food, often used in British English.
Antonyms
Opposite words
cannotMeans not able to do something.
unableNot able to do something.
Word family
Can word family
Base word
can
verb
can
Shows ability.
verb
cannot
Means not able.
noun
cans
More than one metal container.
Related words
Explore related words
Quick practice
Try Can
Practice 1
What can can mean?
Can can show ability, or it can name a metal container.
Practice 2
Which word is an antonym of can when it means able to?
Cannot means not able to do something.
Practice 3
Which sentence uses can correctly?
In this sentence, can means being able to do something.
Practice this skill
Practice vocabulary in WordHive
Use the dictionary to understand Can, then move into short activities matched to the skills on this page.
Learning paths
- Define the Word Hive for word meanings.
- Synonym Search for word choice.
- Context Clue Challenge for sentence clues.
- Buzz Between for homophones and listening.
- Hive Builder for roots, prefixes, and suffixes.