University of Cambridge Language Centre Chinese Intermediate

Three ways to express the modal verb 'can'

会, 能,可以 are similar to each other as they can all be roughly translated as 'can'. However, each modal verb has a different meaning. The difference in meaning is particulary apparent in negative sentences.

indicates an ability (a form of expertise), or possibility.

他一天记住五十个汉字 He can remember fifty Chinese characters a day.

一百镑买到很多东西。 One can buy a lot of things with a hundred pounds.

Please note when used in a negative form or a question, means 'possible to', 'can manage to'.

他病了,所以今天不能来上班了。 He's ill, so he cannot come to work today.

不能帮您办信用卡。 I cannot give you a credit card.

能不能帮我办一张信用卡? Could you provide me with a credit card please?

我怎样才开个人账户呢? How can I open an individual account?


means 'to be able to'. It is specifically used to indicate an acquired ability, knowing how to do something after some learning or practice.

莉莉说一点儿中文。 Lilly can speak a little bit of Chinese.

不太会打乒乓球。 I don't really know how to play table tennis.

开车吗? Can you drive?

Please note that is often used to express a definite prediction, in which case it can be translated as 'will'.

照你的意思办。 I will follow your recommendation.

他今天不会来了,他去外地出差了。 He won't come today, he is on a business trip.

明天下雨吗? Will it rain tomorrow?

可以 mainly indicates permission.

你们可以进来了。 You can come in now.

不可以透支。 You cannot be overdrawn.

可以走了吗? May I leave now?

Please note that:

  • When used in a positive sentence, 可以 also indicates suggestion.

可以去分行办理新卡。 You can go to a branch to apply for a new card.

你有什么问题都可以问我。 You can ask me if you have any questions.

  • When used in a question, 可以 also indicates the expectation of a positive answer.

可以帮我一个忙吗? Could you do me a favour?

可以把这本书借我看看吗? Could you lend me this book?

The correct use of 会, 能, 可以

Decide which of the options given is the correct translation of 'can' and select it to complete the following sentences. Check your answers.

1. 办一张借记卡。
You can have a debit card.

2. 我明天就 去申请一个银行账户。
I will apply for a bank account tomorrow.

3. 用我的银行卡吗?
Can I use my bankcard please?

4. 我还不 使用网上银行。
I don't know how to use online banking yet.

5. 这里不 吸烟。
You cannot smoke here.

6. 帮我一下吗?
Could you help me please?

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