 Is there any difference between "be able to" and "can"?
Hi everyone!
Can anyone tell me if there is any difference in meaning between the use of "be able to" and the use of "can" ?
For example:
In the following pair of sentences it seems that they are similar in meaning:
Scientists are able to explore new planets.
Scientists can explore new planets.
But what about the following pair:
Are you able to help me with my homework? (seems to me that this sentence should be used in a situation in which I am not sure that the person I'm addressing has the knowledge to help me )
Can you help me with my homework? (and this one is more likely to be used in a situation in which I know that the person I'm addressing has the knowledge to help me but I'm not sure he is free right now to do so.)
Waiting for your enlightening answers |