Learn the difference between 能 (néng) and 会 (huì) when expressing possibility in Chinese. 能 focuses on objective ability or conditions, while 会 emphasizes likelihood or prediction.
In Chinese, both "能 (néng)" and "会 (huì)" can be used to express possibility.
But they have a slightly different focus.
Explanation
能 (néng)
Focus on objective ability or conditions
"能" refers to whether someone is able to do something based on external or practical conditions, such as time, ability, permission, or circumstances.
会 (huì)
Focus on likelihood or prediction
"会" expresses that something is likely to happen, or it's used to predict a future outcome based on logic, experience, or belief.
Examples
Tiān zhème wǎn le, tā néng lái ma?
天这么晚了，他能来吗？
It's so late. Is he able to come?
Tiān zhème wǎn le, tā huì lái ma?
天这么晚了，他会来吗？
It's so late. Do you think he will come?
Tā yǒu hěn duō bànfǎ, tā néng bāng nǐ jiějué zhège wèntí.
他有很多办法，他能帮你解决这个问题。
He has many solutions — he can help you solve this problem.
(Because he objectively has the means to help.)
Tā shì yí gè hěn rèxīn de rén, tā huì bāng nǐ de.
他是一个很热心的人，他会帮你的。
He's a very warm-hearted person — I'm sure he'll help you.
(Because he's kind, there's a good chance he will help.)
Summary
The table below summarizes the differences between 能 and 会:
| 能 (néng) | 会 (huì) | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Objective ability or conditions | Likelihood or prediction |
| Key Question | Is someone able to? | Is something likely to happen? |
| Example | 天这么晚了，他能来吗？ | 天这么晚了，他会来吗？ |
| Translation | Is he able to come? | Do you think he will come? |
Text: Angelina Ramona
Layout: Angelina