[Learn basic Chinese with grammar] How to use 可能 for possibility

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What does 可能 mean?

In Chinese, 可能 means “might,” “may,” or “possibly.” It is used when something is not certain.

Word Basic meaning
可能 might; may; possibly

1. 可能 + Verb

Use 可能 before a verb when an action might happen.

Pattern Meaning
Subject + 可能 + Verb Subject might do something
Chinese English
老師可能遲到。 The teacher might be late.
包裹可能明天到。 The package might arrive tomorrow.

2. 可能 + 會 + Verb

可能會 is very common when talking about something that may happen in the future.

Pattern Meaning
Subject + 可能會 + Verb Subject might / may do something
Chinese English
價格可能會上漲。 The price might go up.
活動可能會取消。 The event might be canceled.

可能 and 可能會 are often close in meaning. 可能會 makes the future possibility clearer.

3. 可能 + adjective

可能 can also come before an adjective or adjective phrase when you are not sure about a situation.

Pattern Meaning
Subject + 可能 + Adjective Subject might be adjective
Chinese English
這個答案可能對。 This answer might be correct.
那家店可能很貴。 That store might be expensive.

4. 可能 as an answer

可能 can also be used by itself as a short answer. It means “maybe” or “possibly.”

Chinese English
可能。 Maybe. / Possibly.

This short answer is useful when you are not sure and do not want to give a strong answer.

Useful words and example sentences

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