cannot

The word “cannot” means unable to; not able to. In plain terms, the negative form of "can" — either being unable to do something or not being allowed to.

“Cannot” is pronounced KA-not (/ˈkænɒt/ in IPA).

Here is “cannot” used in a sentence: “I cannot attend the meeting on Friday.”

Words with a similar meaning to “cannot” include can't.

“Cannot” is a verb.

“Cannot” is a very common word in modern English.

“Cannot” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: unable to; not able to.

'Cannot' and 'can't' mean exactly the same thing, and both express inability. The only difference is register: 'cannot' is the full, more formal written form, while 'can't' is the contraction used in everyday speech and casual writing. In formal essays or official documents, 'cannot' is generally preferred over the contraction.

In modern standard English, 'cannot' is written as one word. The two-word form 'can not' is rare and reserved for special cases, such as adding emphasis or in constructions like 'you can not only sing but also dance.' For ordinary negation, always choose the single word 'cannot.'

'Cannot' expresses inability, meaning you lack the power, skill, or possibility to do something. 'May not' usually expresses prohibition or lack of permission, or sometimes uncertainty. 'I cannot swim' means you're unable; 'you may not swim here' means it isn't allowed. In casual speech, though, the two often blur together.