Can / Can't: Hearing the difference
It's pretty embarrasing to admit at my advanced level, but sometimes I still have trouble hearing the difference between "can" and "can't", because the t isn't always pronounced very clearly. Most times it's clear from context whether the speaker meant to say "can" or "can't", but other times it's not.
If someone could tell me if there is another way to tell them apart, that I'm not aware of, I'd hugely appreciate it.
Search from various English teachers...
Answers · 5
1
Where I live the 'a's are pronounced differently (South England)
In 'can' the 'a' is pronounced like ah in 'Apple' so is quite short
In 'can't' the 'a' is pronounced like ar in 'car' and is a bit longer
1
The only way to improve listening is, well, listening. I got my score (C2+ Native) by listening a few hours every day. I listen to audio-books, usually, novels. That helped with grammar, too. Note: I am not C2 in everything.
1
Hello Florian,
Many people have this problem but I have found that generally the positive form is pronounced /kn or /kan whereas the negative form is often pronounced /karnt
Hope this helps
Bob
1
Unfortunately many native speakers talk quickly and not every letter is distinct. It gets easier as you continue to converse in English. Context is exactly how you determine what the person means, but even natives sometimes have to clarify 'can' or 'can't' with some people, so don't despair!
0
Don't fret, I'm a native speaker and it happens to me all the time
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