Pattern: can-be-verb-ing
Structure Overview
Formula: Subject + can + be + verb-ing
Core Meaning: Used to express that an action might possibly be happening right now (often used in questions or negative deductions, but sometimes for general ongoing possibilities).
💬 Contextual Examples
- They can be waiting in the wrong lobby.
- He can't be sleeping with all this noise going on.
🎴 Interactive Web Practice (Click to Reveal)
Practice 1: She ______ be working at this hour; the office is closed.
Answer:
can't
Practice 2: Do you think it ______ be raining when we arrive?
Answer:
can
🔗 Knowledge Base Connections
- 🔑 Parent Keyword: can