能
néng
can; to be able to
Type: VerbsHSK 1
Radical 厶 + 月 + 匕. It was originally the image of a big, strong bear, symbolising capability and strength.
It indicates physical ability or permission. It differs from 会 (a learned skill) and 可以 (permission). '我能来吗' (can I come?) asks about ability or permission, while '我会来' (I'll come) is more of a promise.
厶sīprivate
月yuèmoon or flesh
匕bǐbending person
我能进去吗？
Wǒ néng jìnqù ma?
May I go in?
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