Chinese word

能够

Pronunciation

Pinyinnéng gòu

Meaning

  • auxiliary verbcan

Example

我能够完成这项工作。wǒ néng gòu wán chéng zhè xiàng gōng zuò

I can finish this work.

Illustration for 能够 (can)

More examples

只要练习，你能够学会这首歌。zhǐ yào liàn xí nǐ néng gòu xué huì zhè shǒu gē

As long as you practice, you can learn this song.

Core concept

An action stands within reach because the needed skill or conditions are sufficient.

Common phrases

  • 能够学会néng gòu xué huì

    can learn

  • 能够做到néng gòu zuò dào

    can accomplish

Similar words

能néng: Having the ability, skill, or circumstances needed to carry out an action.
会huì: Being able to do something because practice or experience has taught the skill.
可以ké yǐ: Being able to do something because it is permitted or the circumstances allow it.

Definition in Chinese

表示具备做某事的能力或条件，强调能力或条件足够，常与动词短语连用。biǎo shì jù bèi zuò mǒu shì de néng lì huò tiáo jiàn qiáng diào néng lì huò tiáo jiàn zú gòu cháng yǔ dòng cí duán yǔ lián yòng

Word origin

The compound 能够 (nénggòu, "be able") joins 能 (néng, "be able") with 够 (gòu, "be enough"), linking the ability to act with having enough for the action.

Usage tips

  • This word can describe practical requirements such as enough time, tools, or suitable circumstances, not only a person's learned skill.

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word