How to say “can” in Chinese with 能 (néng)
能 (néng) + Verb
Expressing ability or possibility with "能 (néng)"
能 (néng) + Verb
HSK 1Auxiliary verbsExpressing ability or possibility with "能 (néng)"
Rule structure
能 (néng) is placed before a verb and expresses physical capability and the ability to perform an action. In its negative form, the emphasis is on the impossibility of performing the action due to objective circumstances or physical limitations. Sometimes, negation with 能 (néng) can be used to express prohibition, lack of rights, or permission to do something. 能 (néng) is also used in polite questions.
Rule structure
能 (néng) is placed before a verb and expresses physical capability and the ability to perform an action. In its negative form, the emphasis is on the impossibility of performing the action due to objective circumstances or physical limitations. Sometimes, negation with 能 (néng) can be used to express prohibition, lack of rights, or permission to do something. 能 (néng) is also used in polite questions.
Examples
我能去。
Wǒ néng qù.
I can go.
Examples
我能去。
Wǒ néng qù.
I can go.
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Frequently asked questions
How do you express “Expressing ability or possibility with "能 (néng)"” in Chinese?
Use the structure: 能 (néng) + Verb. For example: 我能去。 — “I can go.”.
What is an example sentence with this grammar rule?
我能去。 — “I can go.”.
Which HSK level includes this grammar rule?
This grammar rule is part of HSK 1.
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