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A plain reading of the word "cannot" says that the person does not have the ability.



If you're a stickler for language, then yes. The word "can(not)" refers to the ability, while the words "may (not)" or "must (not)" refer to a policy constraint rather than ability.

But in common vernacular, the word "can" is used in both cases, so it's ambiguous.

"Mom, can I play on the Xbox now?" "No, you haven't finished your homework." Obviously Junior has the ability to play, but his mom won't allow him to do so.


We're talking about adults, though.




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