HSK 1
能
néng
can
Structure
Subject + 能 + Verb + Object
How it works
The auxiliary verb '能' (néng) is used to express ability, possibility, or permission. At the HSK 1 level, it often indicates whether an action is physically possible or if one is allowed to do something in a specific context.
Examples
我能看电视吗？
Wǒ néng kàn diànshì ma?
Can I watch TV?
他今天能来。
Tā jīntiān néng lái.
He can come today.
你能不能帮我？
Nǐ néng bù néng bāng wǒ?
Can you help me?
Common mistakes
Do not use '了' (le) after the verb when using '能', as '能' focuses on the ability or possibility, not the completion of the action.
Tip
While both '能' and '会' can mean 'can', use '能' for physical possibility or permission, and '会' for skills learned through study (like speaking a language).
More HSK 1 grammar
See 能 in real Chinese
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