Using pouvoir, vouloir and devoir with the infinitive in French

Read more about how to use Using pouvoir, vouloir and devoir with the infinitive in French.
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Using pouvoir, vouloir and devoir with the infinitive

The verbs vouloir, pouvoir et devoir are often followed directly by an infinitive.

vouloir
Je veux dormir. I want to sleep.
Veux-tu sortir ce soir ? Do you want to go out tonight?
pouvoir
Il peut travailler. He can work.
Est-ce que je peux vous aider ? Can I help you.
devoir
Nous devons partir. We should leave.
Vous devez acheter un 2CV. You should buy a 2CV.
Note that when devoir is followed by a noun, it changes meaning:
Tu me dois 100 dollars. You owe me 100 dollars.

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