This phrase means you can do something. It shows you have the skill or that something is possible.
Verb [dictionary form] + こと + が + できるPrimary
This phrase means you can do something. It shows you have the skill or that something is possible.
私はピアノを弾くことができます。
I can play the piano.
この美術館では、写真を撮ることができません。
You cannot take pictures in this art museum.
頑張ったおかげで、試験に合格することができました。
Thanks to my hard work, I was able to pass the exam.
これは、インターネットでのみ購入することができる限定品です。
This is a limited edition item that can only be purchased on the internet.
英語を話すことができれば、もっと多くの人とコミュニケーションがとれるのに。
If I could speak English, I could communicate with many more people.
This is different from the shorter verb form like "can speak." That form is more common in everyday talk. This phrase uses "koto" to make the action a "thing." This makes it sound more formal. It is good for writing or polite speech.
Don't use this when a verb already means 'can do something'. For example, 'can see' is 'mieru'. Do not say 'mieru koto ga dekiru'.
Use this when you want to say you can do something. You can also use it to say something is possible. It is a clear way to talk about ability.
Often confused with(1)
Contrasts with(1)
More formal alternatives(1)
Track your mastery
Kumi's KMT system tracks your mastery across kanji, vocabulary, grammar, and reading. Create a free account to use it on 220,000+ concepts.