English–French

“can” in French

French

Pronunciation

IPA/puvwaʁ/

Example

Je peux t'aider ce soir.

I can help you tonight.

Illustration for pouvoir (can)

How to say “can” in French

“Can” in French is pouvoir.

A gate opens for an action because ability, permission, or circumstances allow it.

Full entry for pouvoir: usage tips, similar words and word origin

Example sentences with pouvoir

Nous pouvons commencer maintenant.

We can start now.

Tips for using pouvoir

  • The present forms are irregular: je peux, tu peux, il peut, and ils peuvent.

“can” in other languages