Differences among can't, cannot and can not

Author: Bob
Updated Date 28/09/2011 23:35:00
Number of views: 1397

Get updates via email

What's the difference among can't, cannot, and can not?

Bob - 29/09/2011 00:18:35

Can't is simply an abbreviation of cannot.

Can't can be used in informal speech. In academic writing, it should never be used such as legal document, or IELTS Writing.

Cannot and can't are interchangeable, but cannot seems to be more emphatic.

For example: You can't eat too much food.

Can not is used to describe the ability to “choose not to” do something.

For example: I can not do the assignment because my lecturer has made it become optional for all students.

(You can choose not to do the assignment since it's not important)