cannot

If something is impossible for you, you are not able to do it.

• I cannot swim.
• We cannot hear you over the music.
• She cannot remember where she left her keys.

How to use it: cannot + verb (I cannot lift this box.)

Similar words: be unable to

Opposites: can

Common phrases: cannot swim, cannot afford something, cannot see something, cannot move

If a rule stops you from doing something, you are not allowed to do it.

• You cannot park here.
• Children cannot use the pool without an adult.
• Students cannot leave during the exam.

How to use it: cannot + verb (Visitors cannot enter this room.)

Similar words: may not, must not

Opposites: can

Common phrases: cannot enter, cannot park here, cannot use something

Something that a person is unable to do.

• Her list contained more cannots than cans.
• We discussed our cans and cannots before choosing a project.
• He turned one of his cannots into a can.

Similar words: impossibility

Common phrases: cans and cannots, a list of cannots