Vous ne pouvez pas
You cannot
Language note: A polite way to deny or refuse something.
Culture note: Being direct but polite is important in French culture.
Context: The negotiator explains a prohibition.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
Vous
[voo]
You cannot
Used to indicate that someone does not have the permission or ability to do something.
Vous ne pouvez pas laisser l'animal seul.
You cannot leave the animal alone.
ne
[nuh]
Not
Part of a negation in formal or written French.
Vous ne pouvez pas laisser l'animal seul.
You cannot leave the animal alone.
pouvez
[poo-VAY]
Can
Forms part of the phrase for ability or permission in questions or negative sentences.
Vous ne pouvez pas laisser l'animal seul.
You cannot leave the animal alone.
pas
[pah]
Not
Used to create the negative form of verbs in French sentences.
Vous ne pouvez pas laisser l'animal seul.
You cannot leave the animal alone.
Phrase Parts
Vous
Ne pouvez pas
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