In this lesson we will learn talking about abilities and how to express that you have power or skill to do something in present, past and future.
| 1. Can you play the piano? | Yes, but not very well. |
| 2. How about the guitar? | (I can play) a little. |
| 3. Can Billy ride a bike? | No, he can’t. He’s too young. |
| 4. Does Abby speak Mandarin? | Yes, she speaks very well. |
| 5. Do you sing? | Not really. I have no talent in that area. |
| 6. Is Connie good at dancing? | Yes, she’s a great dancer. |
| 7. Do you know how to use a computer? | Of course! |
How to talk about ability?
We use “can” and “be able to” when we express about our power or skill to do something.
- I can’t swim.
- I’m unable to swim.
- I’m not able to swim.
- I am able to write with both hands.
- Can you speak Japanese? – Yes, I can.
- I was able to earn a lot of money when I was young. ?
Expressing ability
In the present:
We use the present tense to express ability we can do now.
- I can cook for a hundred people.
- I can’t ride the bike for 10 hours.
In the past
We use the past tense to express the ability we can do in the past.
- I couldn’t win the prize last year.
- I could run very fast when I was 25 years old.
- I was able to sing beautifully when I was at school.
In the future
We can use the future tense to express the ability we can do in the future.
- I will be able to visit you if I go there on holiday.
- He can answer any questions if you don’t understand the lesson.
Yes my friend
?️ Good!