English - Abilities

I can ___.

state an ability

Meaning: State an ability (you can do something).

When to use: Use this when you can do an action.

I can ___ a little.

state limited ability

Meaning: State a limited ability (you can do a little).

When to use: Use this to say you can do something but not very well.

Tip: Don't put "a little" before the verb (wrong: "I a little can speak"). Keep the frame: "I can ___ a little."

I know how to ___.

state learned ability

Meaning: Say you know the method or skill to do something.

When to use: Use this when you have learned how to do something.

Tip: Don't drop "how to" (wrong: "I know change a tire"). Use "I know how to + verb."

I don't know how to ___.

state missing skill or knowledge

Meaning: Say you do not have the skill or knowledge.

When to use: Use this to explain you don't know the method.

I'm good at ___.

describe a strength

Meaning: Describe a personal strength (you are good at something).

When to use: Use this to say you do something well.

I'm not good at ___.

describe a weak ability

Meaning: Say an activity is not a strength for you.

When to use: Use this to admit a weak area.

It's easy for me to ___.

describe something as easy for oneself

Meaning: Say something is easy for you.

When to use: Use this to say a task is simple for you.

It's hard for me to ___.

describe something as difficult for oneself

Meaning: Say something is difficult for you.

When to use: Use this to describe a personal difficulty.

Do you know how to ___?

ask whether someone has a skill or ability

Meaning: Ask if someone has a skill or ability.

When to use: Use this to ask whether someone knows how to do something.

Can you ___ by yourself?

ask whether someone can do something independently

Meaning: Ask whether someone can do something independently.

When to use: Use this to check if a person needs help.

Tip: Don't place "by yourself" before the verb (wrong: "Can you by yourself move it?"). Put it after the main action.

I can do it by myself.

say that you can do something independently

Meaning: Say you can do something without help.

When to use: Use this to tell someone you are independent.

I can't do it without help.

say that you need assistance to do something

Meaning: Say you need help to do something.

When to use: Use this to explain you cannot do a task alone.

I need more practice with ___.

say that you need practice in an area

Meaning: Say you require more practice in an area.

When to use: Use this to admit you are still learning and want more practice.