The English modal “can” has a couple of different translations in French depending on its meaning. Let’s clarify how to translate “can” into French. You’ll see, it’s easy!

“I don’t have time to do it” = “Je n’ai pas le temps de le faire”

Can I open the window? = (Est-ce que) je peux ouvrir la fenêtre ?

Can you take a photo of me please? = Est-ce que vous pouvez (tu peux) me prendre en photo ?

I can swim: I learnt when I was 6. = Je sais nager

I can swim 2km in one hour. = Je peux nager 2km en une heure.

Je sais parler un peu français

Je peux avoir une conversation basique, mais pas participer à un grand débat

Je sais lire

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The post FYW 186 : “savoir” or “pouvoir”? How to translate “can” into French appeared first on French Your Way.