Quote:
Originally Posted by miniwave  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 |
My opinion is that there is no difference in Modern English between 'I can' and 'I am able to', but I am willing to be convinced...
I think the confusion in the questioner's mind is between 'are you able to ...' and 'do you have the ability to ...'.