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Expressing ability or possibility with 能 ("neng2")

能 néng

Verb
HSK 1

Structure

Subj. + 能 + Verb + Obj.

Translations

  • Can
  • Able

Definition

能 (néng) 表示有能力做某事或某种可能性，通常用于指由于具备某种条件或技能而能够完成动作。

能 (néng) indicates the ability to do something or possibility, often used when one has the condition or skill to complete an action.

Usage

能 放在动词前面，表示主语具备完成该动作的能力或某种条件使得动作可能发生。否定形式是“不能”，表示没有能力或不允许。

能 is placed before the verb to indicate that the subject has the ability to perform the action or that conditions make the action possible. The negative form is '不能' (bù néng), meaning cannot or not allowed.

Examples

  • 1 他能说三种语言。 (He can speak three languages.)
  • 2 明天我能来吗？ (Can I come tomorrow?)
  • 3 这个问题我能回答。 (I can answer this question.)
  • 4 用这个钥匙不能打开门。 (Cannot open the door with this key.)
  • 5 他能跑得很快。 (He can run very fast.)

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