Which text uses the word can in its traditional sense?
As they observed the animals on the open grassland, the wildlife photographer said to Alec, "Did you know that cheetahs can run as fast as seventy-five miles per hour?" As they observed the cheetahs on the open grassland, the wildlife photographer said to Alec, "You can borrow my camera if you want."
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.
As they observed the animals on the open grassland, the wildlife photographer said to Alec, "Did you know that cheetahs can run as fast as seventy-five miles per hour?"
The first text uses can in its nontraditional sense: to have permission to.
As they observed the cheetahs on the open grassland, the wildlife photographer said to Alec, "You can borrow my camera if you want."
Most style guides recommend to use the traditional sense of the word can because it is considered more standard.