Processing keyword: 能 (néng) - Can/Be able to (capability/possibility)

Mandarin Grammar Point: 能 (néng) - Can/Be able to (capability/possibility)

能 (néng) - Can/Be able to (Capable/Possibility)

1. Introduction

The Chinese word 能 (néng) translates to "can" or "be able to" in English. It is used to express capability, possibility, or permission in various contexts, making it an essential grammar point in Mandarin.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

能 (néng) indicates the ability to do something, a feasible action, or a general permission that is granted to someone.

Structure

The structure of using 能 (néng) in a sentence typically follows this pattern:

Subject + 能 (néng) + Verb + (Object)

Formation Diagram

[Subject] + 能 (néng) + [Verb] + [Object]
   (e.g. 我能去商店。)
       ↓             ↓
      I can        go to the store.

Detailed Explanation

• Expressing Ability: Indicates that the subject has the skill or capacity to perform an action.

  • Example: 我能游泳。(Wǒ néng yóu yǒng.) "I can swim."

• Expressing Possibility: Suggests that something is likely to happen or is feasible.

  • Example: 明天会下雨，你能带伞吗？(Míngtiān huì xià yǔ, nǐ néng dài sǎn ma?) "It might rain tomorrow, can you bring an umbrella?"

• Expressing Permission: Used to indicate that someone is allowed to do something.

  • Example: 你能在这里停车吗？(Nǐ néng zài zhèlǐ tíngchē ma?) "Can you park here?"

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3. Comparative Analysis

能 (néng) vs. 可以 (kěyǐ)

• Both can express ability or permission, but 能 often emphasizes capability, while 可以 leans more into permission.

  Grammar Point	Usage	Example
  能 (néng)	Capability	我能做这个。(Wǒ néng zuò zhège.) "I can do this."
  可以 (kěyǐ)	Permission	你可以去吗？(Nǐ kěyǐ qù ma?) "Can you go?"

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4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

• Formal Context:
  在考试中，我能保持冷静。(Zài kǎoshì zhōng, wǒ néng bǎochí lěngjìng.)
  "I can remain calm during the exam."

• Informal Context:
  你能来我的生日派对吗？(Nǐ néng lái wǒ de shēngrì pàiduì ma?)
  "Can you come to my birthday party?"

• Written Context:
  他如果努力学习，就能通过考试。(Tā rúguǒ nǔlì xuéxí, jiù néng tōngguò kǎoshì.)
  "If he studies hard, he will be able to pass the exam."

• Spoken Context:
  我能帮你。(Wǒ néng bāng nǐ.)
  "I can help you."

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

Using 能 (néng) in relation to capability often ties into the Chinese emphasis on self-improvement and capability in society. Demonstrating what one can do is significant, particularly in educational and job-related discussions.

Levels of Politeness

When using 能 (néng), the level of politeness can increase by adding "请 (qǐng)" (please):

• 你能帮我吗，请？(Nǐ néng bāng wǒ ma, qǐng?) "Could you help me, please?"

Idiomatic Expressions

• 能者多劳 (néng zhě duō láo) - "The capable should work harder."

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Mixing up 能 (néng) with 会 (huì).
   • 会 (huì) suggests learned skills; 能 (néng) pertains to general capability or possibility.
   • Example: 我会游泳。(Wǒ huì yóu yǒng.) "I can swim." (indicates skill).

Learning Strategies

• Remember 能 (néng) as "can" for general actions and "able to" for skills.
• Use the mnemonic: "Noble Able" (能 - néng) to recall capability.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 能 (néng) indicates capability, possibility, or permission.
• It can express both verbs of action and conditional statements about what one is able to do.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the English translation of 能 (néng)?
2. How would you ask someone if they can help you in Mandarin?
3. Which word would you use to indicate someone’s learned skill, 能 (néng) or 会 (huì)? By understanding and practicing the use of 能 (néng), learners can effectively express capabilities and possibilities in Mandarin.