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Cant Expressions

The document discusses four common idiomatic expressions that use the modal verb "can't". The expressions are: 1) "Can't beat that" which means something is the best. 2) "Can't get a word in edgeways" which means others are not allowing you to speak. 3) "Can't hack it" which means to be unable to do something. 4) "Can't hold a candle to" which means to be much less good than something else. Examples are provided for each expression.

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258 views

Cant Expressions

The document discusses four common idiomatic expressions that use the modal verb "can't". The expressions are: 1) "Can't beat that" which means something is the best. 2) "Can't get a word in edgeways" which means others are not allowing you to speak. 3) "Can't hack it" which means to be unable to do something. 4) "Can't hold a candle to" which means to be much less good than something else. Examples are provided for each expression.

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api-312433721
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© © All Rights Reserved
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Some Expressions Using the Modal cant

The model can+ not = cant is also used idiomatically as illustrated by the
examples below:
1-Cant beat that means that it is the best
You cant beat the Beatles. They were the best group ever
You cant beat a long soak in the bath when you are tired.
2- Cant get a word in edgeways means that the other speakers are not
giving you the time to speak. Also edgewise.
I tried to make my feelings known but I couldnt get a word in edgeways.
Everybody was talking so much that I could hardly get a word in edgewise.
3- Cant hack it means to be unable to do something.
He cant hack being in charge. He goes into a panic.
If you cant hack it, let me know and I will help you.
4- Cant hold a candle to means to be much less good than.
When it comes to selling, John cant hold a candle to Mary.
The movie is OK but it cant hold a candle to the original version.

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