Which text uses the word can in its traditional sense?
In an effort to reduce human impact on nature trails, some national parks limit the numbers of hikers per group. Olympic National Park, for instance, maintains that only twelve people can hike in each group. Some parts of the Olympic National Park coastal trail are quite strenuous. The National Park Service encourages only those hikers who can climb and hike on slippery rocks to make the trek.
Words change in meaning when speakers begin using them in new ways. For example, the word peruse once only meant to examine in detail, but it's now also commonly used to mean to look through in a casual manner.
When a word changes in meaning, its correct usage is often debated. Although a newer sense of the word may be more commonly used, many people consider a word's traditional definition to be the correct usage. Being able to distinguish the different uses of a word can help you use it appropriately for different audiences.
Britney perused her notes, carefully preparing for her exam.
The traditional usage above is considered more standard.
David perused the magazine, absentmindedly flipping through the pages.
The nontraditional usage above is now commonly used, but traditional style guides generally advise against it.
The second text uses can in its traditional sense: to have the ability to.
Some parts of the Olympic National Park coastal trail are quite strenuous. The National Park Service encourages only those hikers who can climb and hike on slippery rocks to make the trek.
The first text uses can in its nontraditional sense: to have permission to.
In an effort to reduce human impact on nature trails, some national parks limit the numbers of hikers per group. Olympic National Park, for instance, maintains that only twelve people can hike in each group.
Most style guides recommend to use the traditional sense of the word can because it is considered more standard.