For ability:
* Inaweza (pronounced ee-nah-way-zah) - This is the most common and general way to say "can" in Swahili.
* Inaweza kuwa (pronounced ee-nah-way-zah koo-wah) - This is a slightly more formal way of saying "can be"
For permission:
* Inaweza (pronounced ee-nah-way-zah) - This is also used for asking permission, but you may need to add more context for clarity. For example:
* Je, unaweza kuingia? (pronounced jay, oo-nah-way-zah koo-in-jee-ah?) - Can you come in?
* Je, unaweza kuondoka? (pronounced jay, oo-nah-way-zah koo-on-doh-kah?) - Can you leave?
Examples:
* Inaweza mvua leo. (pronounced ee-nah-way-zah moo-vya lay-oh) - It can rain today.
* Inaweza kuwa baridi sana usiku. (pronounced ee-nah-way-zah koo-wah bah-ree-dee sa-nah oo-see-koo) - It can be very cold at night.
* Je, unaweza kunisaidia? (pronounced jay, oo-nah-way-zah koo-nee-sa-hee-dee-ah?) - Can you help me?
It's important to consider the context and who you're talking to when choosing the best way to say "can it" in Swahili.