〜ことができる
- Pattern
- 〜ことができる
- Level
- N4
- Reading
- 〜ことができる is a standard way to express capability or permission. It attaches to the dictionary form of verbs (e.g. 泳ぐことができる). It contrasts with the potential verb form (e.g. 泳げる), which is more commonly used in casual, spoken Japanese, while 〜ことができる is slightly more formal and clear. level: N4, nuance: polite and written/spoken.
- Meaning
- can do, to be able to do
- Example
私は日本語で手紙を書くことができます。 I can write a letter in Japanese.