You can speak Chinese. You can meet a friend tomorrow. You can take photos here.
English uses “can” in all three situations. In Chinese, we often choose between 会 (huì), 能 (néng), and 可以 (kěyǐ).
Here’s a simple starting point:
| Word | Main idea | Think… |
|---|---|---|
| 会 · huì | A learned skill | “I know how.” |
| 能 · néng | Ability or circumstances | “It’s possible for me.” |
| 可以 · kěyǐ | Permission | “It’s allowed.” |
These meanings sometimes overlap. Use this guide as a starting point, not a strict rule for every sentence.
会 · huì — Something you know how to do
Use 会 for skills you have learned, such as speaking a language, swimming, or cooking.
Here, 不会 means you haven’t learned the skill.
能 · néng — Whether you can actually do it
Use 能 when your health, time, ability, or circumstances affect what you can do.
Compare these two ideas:
可以 · kěyǐ — Asking whether something is allowed
Use 可以 to ask for or give permission.
不可以 often means something is not permitted—not that you lack the skill.
Can 能 and 可以 both be correct?
Yes! When asking permission, both of these are natural:
So don’t worry if you hear both. Context matters, and the three words do not fit into completely separate boxes.
Reference link: Chinese Grammar Wiki: Comparing 会、能、可以
Try it yourself
How would you say these?
- I know how to cook.
- I can’t come tomorrow.
- May I sit here?
Suggested answers
For the last sentence, 我能坐这里吗？also works.
Your turn: Tell us one thing you know how to do. Start with 我会……