Can and can't
On this page
The gap
I can't hides three different things: not right now, not yet, and never. Heard back, I can't sing can mean a sore throat or a lifelong fact. Ageben says which one you mean.
The forms
Add a hyphen to the English verb, then x and a vowel:
| Suffix | Meaning |
|---|---|
-xa | can: able |
-xo | can't, just for now (usually can) |
-xe | can't yet (the default when you are not sure) |
-xu | can never: impossible |
Reminder: x sounds like the s in vision. The hyphen only shows that the word in front is English. The letters after it are spelled exactly as in Ageben. Here the vowel carries the meaning, so the endings from the other lessons do not come back.
Cue for the vowels: a ≈ full, o ≈ a dip, e ≈ not yet, u ≈ never.
Leave the suffix off when can is only polite filler. Can you pass the salt needs no -xa.
Examples
I
swim-xa, but Idrive-xowith this cast on.
Shecode-xe. She starts the course in May.
Ising-xuin front of people.
Helift-xotoday, his back is out.
The kidsread-xe, but they're learning.
I drive-xo says the cast is the problem and it will pass. She code-xe keeps the door open without promising how soon, which plain can't never does. I sing-xu is the only one that closes the door.
Practice
Add the suffix that fits the note.
1. I can't run. (my ankle is sprained; it will heal)
Show answer
I run-xo.
2. He can't read music. (he hasn't learned it yet)
Show answer
He read-xe music.
3. I can't drink milk. (an allergy that will not change)
Show answer
I drink-xu milk.
4. She can drive. (she has her license)
Show answer
She drive-xa.