The word "can" is a versatile modal verb in English, and it is used in various ways in both spoken and written English. Here are some common uses in both contexts:
**Spoken English:**
1. "Can you help me with this assignment?"
- In spoken English, "can" is frequently used to make requests or ask for assistance.
2. "I can swim."
- It is used to express one's ability or capacity to perform a specific action.
3. "Can we go to the movies tonight?"
- "Can" is employed to seek permission or suggest a plan in a casual conversation.
**Written English:**
1. In a formal letter:
"I am writing to ask if I can be considered for the position."
- In formal written communication, "can" can be used to make requests politely.
2. In a technical manual:
"The user can adjust the settings by following these instructions."
- In written documents, "can" is used to describe the capability or options available to the user.
3. In a research paper:
"The results of the study can provide valuable insights into the problem."
- In academic or technical writing, "can" can be used to express what the research or study is capable of doing.
In both spoken and written English, "can" is a flexible modal verb that can be used to express requests, permissions, abilities, and possibilities, depending on the context and the purpose of the communication.