"can" vs "will be able"

Question

"can" vs "will be able"

Both 'can' and 'will be able' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Can' is used to express ability or permission in the present or future, while 'will be able' is used to express ability or possibility in the future. The choice between them depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Last Updated: April 01, 2024

Use 'can' to talk about general abilities or permissions in the present or future. It is also used to express possibility or likelihood.

Examples:

I can speak English fluently.
Can you help me with this problem?
She can come to the party tomorrow.
They can win the game if they play well.
We can go to the beach if the weather is nice.

Alternatives:

able to
have the ability to
allowed to
capable of

Use 'will be able' to talk about abilities or possibilities that will exist in the future. It emphasizes the future aspect of the ability or possibility.

Examples:

I will be able to finish the project by next week.
Will you be able to attend the meeting tomorrow?
She will be able to drive once she gets her license.
They will be able to solve the problem with the new information.
We will be able to travel once the restrictions are lifted.

Alternatives:

will have the ability to
will be capable of
will manage to

Answer 1

can

The word 'can' is a modal verb used to express ability, permission, or possibility in the present or future.

Answer 2

will be able

The phrase 'will be able' is used to express future ability or possibility.

"can" vs "will be able"

can

will be able

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