In the sentence given below, the modal ‘can’ expresses:
Even with his right arm in a plaster, Sahil can write neatly with his left hand.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → ability
The clue is “even with his right arm in a plaster”. He still has the skill to write neatly with the other hand.
| Option | Meaning and use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) permission | allowing someone to do something; the sentence is about Sahil’s skill | You can use my bicycle while I am away. |
| (2) possibility | what sometimes happens; here it tells what Sahil is able to do | The roads in Mumbai can flood in July. |
| (3) a polite request | a question that asks someone to do something; this sentence is a statement | Can you hold my bag for a minute? |
| (4) ability (answer) | can shows that someone is able to do something now | Little Anu can count up to a hundred. |