cannot
word · lemma: can
/ˈkænɑt/
KAN-aht
/kˈænɒt/
KAN-ot
Definition
Indicates that someone is not able to do something, or that something is not possible.
Usage & Nuances
More formal/written form of 'can't'. Used in negatives to express inability or impossibility. Do not use with 'not' again ('cannot not'). Often appears in rules, signs, and polite refusals.
Spanish: no poderPortuguese (BR): não poderPortuguese (PT): não poderChinese (Simplified): 不能Chinese (Traditional): 不能Hindi: नहीं कर सकतेArabic: لا يستطيعBengali: পারিনা - করতে পারি নাRussian: не могу - не может - нельзяJapanese: できない - することができないVietnamese: không thểKorean: 할 수 없다Turkish: yapamaz - mümkün değilUrdu: نہیں کر سکتا - نہیں کر سکتیIndonesian: tidak bisa - tidak dapat
Example Sentences
I cannot swim.
basic
She cannot come to the party.
basic
We cannot open the door.
basic
Sorry, I cannot help you right now.
natural
You cannot park here; it’s private property.
natural
If you cannot find your keys, check your bag again.
natural