Talking about ability

How to express ability

To express that someone has the power or skill to do something, can and be able are used.

Examples:

• I can't help you.I am busy.
• I'm unable to help you.
• When I was young I was able to earn my living pretty well; I could work hard. Now I can't. I'm too old.
• I can stand on my head for five minutes.
• Can you speak Arabic?
• Yes, I can.

Expressing ability

In the present:

Express ability in the present as follows:

• I can speak good English.
• I can't stand on my head.

In the past

Express ability in the past as follows

• I was unable to visit him.
• I couldn't eat at all when I was ill.

In the future

Express ability in the future as follows

• I will be able to buy a house when I get a good job.
• The teacher can assist you after class if you have any questions.

Things to remember:

• Can is always followed by an infinitive without "to."
  Examples: 
  I can ride my bike and I can drive a car, but I can't drive a lorry. 
  
  
• Can in the past is was able or could 
  Examples:
  When I was young I was able to earn my living pretty well. Now I can't; I'm too old.
  I couldn't hear what he was saying.
  
  
• Can in the future is will be able.
  Example: 
  When I finish my studies, I will be able to find a job.