Can is usually used in standard spoken English when asking for permission. It is acceptable in most forms of written English, although in very formal writing, such as official instructions, may is often …

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 …

CAN definition: to be able to; have the ability, power, or skill to. See examples of can used in a sentence.

Define can. can synonyms, can pronunciation, can translation, English dictionary definition of can. to be able to, have the power or skill to: I can take a bus to the airport.

Despite the insistence by some, that can means only "to be able'' and may means "to be permitted,'' both are regularly used in seeking or granting permission: Can (or May) I borrow your tape recorder?

You use can to indicate that someone is allowed to do something. 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 …

Used to indicate possession of a specified power, right, or privilege. The president can veto congressional bills.