1. Home
  2. Grammar Points
  3. Potential complement

Potential complement

得 de

Grammar
HSK 3

Structure

Subj. + Verb + 得 + Complement Subj. + Verb + 不 + Complement

Definition

可能补语是指用在动词后，表示动作的结果、趋势或可能性是否能够实现的补语形式。通常由“得”或“不”加上结果补语或趋向补语构成。

The potential complement is a complement used after a verb to indicate whether the result, direction, or possibility of an action can be achieved. It is typically formed by adding '得' or '不' before a result complement or directional complement.

Usage

可能补语用于表达动作能否达到某种结果或状态。肯定形式是“动词 + 得 + 补语”，否定形式是“动词 + 不 + 补语”。常用于日常对话中，强调能力、条件或客观可能性。

The potential complement is used to express whether an action can achieve a certain result or state. The affirmative form is 'verb + 得 + complement', and the negative form is 'verb + 不 + complement'. It is common in daily conversation to emphasize ability, conditions, or objective possibility.

Examples

  • 1 这本书我买得起。（I can afford to buy this book.）
  • 2 他跑得很快。（He can run fast.）
  • 3 这个箱子你搬不动。（You cannot lift this box.）
  • 4 我看不清楚黑板上的字。（I cannot see the words on the blackboard clearly.）
  • 5 这么晚了他还来得了吗？（Can he still come at this late hour?）

Put it into practice

Exam-style HSK drills with instant scoring and explanations.

Find my HSK level

Free · about 3 minutes · no account needed