How to Express Capability with 能, 会, 可以 in Mandarin

Understanding 能, 会, 可以

Three of the most commonly used verbs in Mandarin for expressing capability or ability are 能 (néng), 会 (huì), and 可以 (kě yǐ). These can often be translated to the English words "can" or "able to," but they have distinct uses depending on context.

Usage of 能 (néng)

能 (néng) is primarily used to express the ability to do something due to external conditions or internal qualities. It implies that something is possible or permitted given the circumstances.

Usage of 会 (huì)

会 (huì) is used to express learned skills or abilities, similar in meaning to "knows how to" in English. It is typically employed when referring to skills acquired through practice.

Usage of 可以 (kě yǐ)

可以 (kě yǐ) is most often used to ask for permission or to indicate what is permissible or allowed in a given situation.

Choosing the Right Verb

The choice between 能, 会, and 可以 can change the meaning of a sentence. Consider what aspect of ability you wish to convey: possibility (能), skill (会), or permission (可以).

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse these verbs because English sometimes uses "can" in contexts where Mandarin distinguishes with specific verbs. Over time, with practice, the differences will become clear.