Question

1. You can take the bus.

If somebody say the sentence, what does that mean?

2. You may take the bus.
3. You are able to take the bus.
4. You are allowed to take the bus.

What does usually #1 mean? #2, 3, or 4?

Answer 1

They all mean about the same -- but 1 usually means # 2.

#3 likely means that a bus goes where you want to go.

#4 is more often addressed to a child who's been given permission to take the bus.