How to say "can" or "allowed" in Chinese

可以 (kěyǐ) is a modal verb meaning 'can' or 'may'. It's composed of 可 (kě, 'can') and 以 (yǐ, a particle that completes the verb). It often appears in questions with 吗 (ma) at the end.

Use 可以 to ask for or grant permission, or to say something is possible. It's polite and neutral, suitable for most situations. As a response, 可以 means 'yes, you may' or 'that's fine'. Avoid using it for ability (use 会 huì or 能 néng instead).