Can versus will/may
Can versus will/may
(OP)
A minor word peeve of mine is people using the word "can" when they really mean, "will" or "may".
Can you send me an email?
The answer is an automatic yes, since "can" implies the ability to do so... but whether I will or not is another question alllltogether!
I have a lot of fun with this with my nephew and niece, but they've cottoned on now and ask me "will you" or "may you" questions when they want something from me. Kids are smart!
Cheers
Rob
Can you send me an email?
The answer is an automatic yes, since "can" implies the ability to do so... but whether I will or not is another question alllltogether!
I have a lot of fun with this with my nephew and niece, but they've cottoned on now and ask me "will you" or "may you" questions when they want something from me. Kids are smart!
Cheers
Rob





RE: Can versus will/may
As in “may I please leave the table” sounds correct but “may you leave the table” does not.
RE: Can versus will/may
Cheers
Rob
RE: Can versus will/may
RE: Can versus will/may
I love saying, "I must be able to, because I did."
"I think there is a world market for maybe five computers."
Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM, 1943.
Have you read FAQ731-376 to make the best use of Eng-Tips Forums?
RE: Can versus will/may
Can - May - Will - Could - Should - Shall
just do it!
"If A equals success, then the formula is: A = X + Y + Z, X is work. Y is play. Z is keep your mouth shut."
-- by Albert Einstein
RE: Can versus will/may
corus
RE: Can versus will/may
DaveAtkins
RE: Can versus will/may
"Long live the king" (May the king live long.) etc.
William
RE: Can versus will/may
RE: Can versus will/may
I want to be a beneficiary.
"If A equals success, then the formula is: A = X + Y + Z, X is work. Y is play. Z is keep your mouth shut."
-- by Albert Einstein
RE: Can versus will/may
Will-I-am
RE: Can versus will/may
"Quit acting like a 3rd grader and give me the damn thing."
"If A equals success, then the formula is: A = X + Y + Z, X is work. Y is play. Z is keep your mouth shut."
-- by Albert Einstein
RE: Can versus will/may