Can / Cannot ((으)ㄹ 수 있다/없다)
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Use {ㄹ|을} 수 있다 to express ability or possibility, and {ㄹ|을} 수 없다 to express inability or impossibility.
- Attach {ㄹ} 수 있다 to verb stems ending in a vowel (e.g., 가다 -> 갈 수 있다).
- Attach {을} 수 있다 to verb stems ending in a consonant (e.g., 먹다 -> 먹을 수 있다).
- Use {없다} instead of {있다} to negate the ability (e.g., 못 먹어요 -> 먹을 수 없어요).
Overview
Korean, unlike English, differentiates several nuances of "can" or "cannot." The grammatical pattern (으)ㄹ 수 있다 (can) and (으)ㄹ 수 없다 (cannot) is your primary tool for expressing ability (the inherent capacity to do something) and situational possibility (whether circumstances allow an action). This pattern is fundamental, appearing frequently in daily conversation, and mastering it unlocks a significant portion of communicative expression in Korean. While often translated simply as "can," its underlying structure reveals a more precise meaning: "a way/method/means to [verb] exists" ((으)ㄹ 수 있다) or "a way/method/means to [verb] does not exist" ((으)ㄹ 수 없다).
This linguistic framing helps to clarify why it behaves differently from modal verbs in languages like English, and why it is not typically used for permission.
This pattern is built upon the dependent noun 수 (su), which literally translates to "method," "way," "possibility," or "number." When combined with the preceding adnominal form -(으)ㄹ (the future/potential modifier for verbs) and the existence verbs 있다 (to exist) or 없다 (to not exist), it forms a powerful and versatile construct. Understanding 수 as a noun that refers to the potential or means for an action is key to grasping the pattern's true meaning and avoiding common misunderstandings with other "can" expressions in Korean. For instance, 한국어를 할 수 있어요 (hanguk-eoreul hal su isseoyo) means "I have the ability/means to speak Korean," not merely "I speak Korean."
How This Grammar Works
Verb Stem + (으)ㄹ 수 있다/없다 is a compound grammatical form. It combines a verb stem with an adnominal ending, a dependent noun, and an existence verb to create a nuanced expression of potential or capacity. Let's break down each component:- Verb Stem: This is the base form of the verb, obtained by removing the
-다from the dictionary form (e.g.,가다→가-,먹다→먹-,하다→하-). It signifies the action or state in question.
- -(으)ㄹ: This is an adnominal ending (관형사형 어미), specifically the future or potential adnominal ending. Its function here is to modify the following noun,
수. It indicates that the action described by the verb is either potential, intended, or hypothetical, setting the stage for수to refer to the means or possibility of that action. This is the same-(으)ㄹfound in future tense constructions like갈 거예요(I will go) or when modifying nouns as in읽을 책(a book to read).
- 수 (su): This is a dependent noun (의존 명사), meaning it cannot stand alone and must always be preceded by a modifier. In this context,
수refers to the "way," "method," "ability," "capacity," or "possibility" of doing something. Because수is a noun, it always requires a space before it. This is a critical point for both understanding the grammar and avoiding spacing errors in writing. The literal interpretation helps:갈 수 있다means "the way/possibility to go exists."
- 있다 (itta) / 없다 (eoptta): These are the fundamental existence verbs in Korean, meaning "to exist" or "to not exist," respectively. They function as the main predicate of the sentence, determining whether the
수(the way/possibility) is present or absent. These verbs are then conjugated according to tense, politeness level, and mood, such as있어요/없어요(polite informal),있습니다/없습니다(formal polite), or있었어/없었어(past casual).
이 책을 읽을 수 있어요 (i chaegeul ilgeul su isseoyo) literally means, "The possibility/way to read this book exists (for me)." This contrasts with other Korean expressions for "can" by focusing on the inherent capacity or enabling circumstances, rather than learned skills or permission. The distinction from English "can" is vital; while "can" might ask for permission, -(으)ㄹ 수 있다? generally inquires about feasibility.Formation Pattern
ㄹ 수 있다/없다 and 을 수 있다/없다 depends on the final sound of the verb stem, specifically whether it ends in a vowel or a consonant. This follows the standard rules for attaching the future/potential adnominal ending -(으)ㄹ.
ㄹ 수 있다/없다.
가다 (to go) → 가- + ㄹ 수 있다 → 갈 수 있다 (can go)
내일 저녁에 갈 수 있어요? (Can you go tomorrow evening?)
보다 (to see/watch) → 보- + ㄹ 수 없다 → 볼 수 없다 (cannot see/watch)
저는 무서운 영화는 잘 볼 수 없어요. (I can't really watch scary movies well.)
ㄹ), you attach 을 수 있다/없다.
먹다 (to eat) → 먹- + 을 수 있다 → 먹을 수 있다 (can eat)
지금 밥을 먹을 수 없어요. 너무 배불러요. (I can't eat rice now. I'm too full.)
읽다 (to read) → 읽- + 을 수 있다 → 읽을 수 있다 (can read)
이 책은 한 시간 안에 다 읽을 수 있어요. (I can read this whole book in an hour.)
ㄹ (Irregular): If the verb stem ends in ㄹ, the ㄹ drops before certain endings that begin with ㄴ, ㅂ, ㅅ, or 오. However, for the -(으)ㄹ adnominal ending, the ㄹ actually remains, and you simply attach 수 있다/없다 as if the stem ended in a vowel.
만들다 (to make) → 만들- + 수 있다 → 만들 수 있다 (can make)
저는 김치를 만들 수 있습니다. (I can make kimchi.)
살다 (to live) → 살- + 수 없다 → 살 수 없다 (cannot live)
이 돈으로는 서울에서 살 수 없어요. (With this money, I can't live in Seoul.)
ㄷ Irregular Verbs: Verbs ending in ㄷ often change ㄷ to ㄹ when followed by a vowel. Since -(으)ㄹ starts with a vowel for consonant stems, this irregularity applies.
듣다 (to listen) → 들- + 을 수 있다 → 들을 수 있다 (can listen)
시끄러워서 수업에 집중할 수 없어요. 아무것도 들을 수 없네요. (It's so noisy, I can't concentrate on class. I can't hear anything.)
걷다 (to walk) → 걸- + 을 수 있다 → 걸을 수 있다 (can walk)
다리가 아파서 더 이상 걸을 수 없었어요. (My legs hurt, so I couldn't walk any further.)
ㅂ Irregular Verbs: Verbs ending in ㅂ often change ㅂ to ㅜ (or ㅗ in 돕다, 곱다) when followed by a vowel. Since -(으)ㄹ starts with a vowel for consonant stems, this irregularity applies.
돕다 (to help) → 도우- + ㄹ 수 있다 → 도울 수 있다 (can help)
제가 도울 수 있는 일이 있을까요? (Is there anything I can help with?)
춥다 (to be cold) → 추우- + ㄹ 수 없다 → 추울 수 없다 (cannot be cold / it's impossible to be cold - less common usage as 춥다 is an adjective, but grammatically possible in certain contexts if expressing a state's possibility).
가-) | Attach ㄹ 수 있다/없다 | 가다 (to go) | 갈 수 있다 | gal su itta | can go | polite informal | 갈 수 있어요 (gal su isseoyo) |
먹-) | Attach 을 수 있다/없다 | 먹다 (to eat) | 먹을 수 있다 | meogeul su itta | can eat | formal polite | 먹을 수 있습니다 (meogeul su isseumnida) |
ㄹ (만들-) | Attach 수 있다/없다 (as if vowel end) | 만들다 (to make) | 만들 수 없다 | mandeul su eoptta | cannot make | polite informal | 만들 수 없어요 (mandeul su eopseoyo) |
ㄷ Irregular (듣-) | ㄷ → ㄹ + 을 수 있다/없다 | 듣다 (to listen) | 들을 수 있다 | deureul su itta | can listen | formal polite | 들을 수 있습니다 (deureul su isseumnida) |
ㅂ Irregular (돕-) | ㅂ → ㅜ + ㄹ 수 있다/없다 | 돕다 (to help) | 도울 수 있다 | doul su itta | can help | polite informal | 도울 수 있어요 (doul su isseoyo) |
When To Use It
(으)ㄹ 수 있다/없다 pattern is versatile and extends beyond a simple translation of "can." It primarily communicates ability (one's inherent capacity) and situational possibility (whether external conditions permit an action). Here's a detailed breakdown of its uses:- 1Expressing Ability or Capacity: This is the most straightforward use, indicating that someone possesses the skill, strength, or mental faculty to perform an action. It focuses on the subject's internal capabilities.
저는 한국어를 유창하게 말할 수 있어요.(jeoneun hanguk-eoreul yuchanghage marhal su isseoyo.) – I can speak Korean fluently. (Implies acquired skill).아직 운전할 수 없어요. 면허가 없거든요.(ajik unjeonhal su eopseoyo. myeonheoga eopgeodeunyo.) – I can't drive yet. I don't have a license. (Lacks the legal ability).그는 혼자서 이 모든 일을 해낼 수 있는 사람이에요.(geuneun honjaseo i modeun ireul haenael su inneun saram-ieyo.) – He's someone who can accomplish all this work by himself. (Refers to his competence).
- 1Indicating Situational Possibility or Feasibility: This use focuses on external circumstances or conditions that allow or prevent an action. It's not about inherent skill, but whether the situation makes something possible.
내일 오후에 만날 수 있을까요?(naeil ohue mannal su isseulkkayo?) – Can we meet tomorrow afternoon? (Asking if the time/circumstances permit).지금은 통화할 수 없어요. 회의 중이라서요.(jigeumeun tonghwahal su eopseoyo. hoeui jungiraseoyo.) – I can't talk on the phone right now. I'm in a meeting. (Circumstances prevent it).이 길로는 차가 들어갈 수 없어요.(i gilloneun chaga deureogal su eopseoyo.) – Cars cannot enter this road. (The road conditions make it impossible).
- 1Expressing General Possibility or Likelihood: This refers to things that are generally possible or can happen. It's often used when talking about potential outcomes or observations.
사람은 누구나 실수할 수 있어요.(saram-eun nuguna silsuhal su isseoyo.) – Anyone can make a mistake. (A general truth about human nature).이런 방법으로 하면 더 빨리 끝낼 수 있을 거예요.(ireon bangbeop-euro hamyeon deo ppalli kkeunnael su isseul geoyeyo.) – If we do it this way, we can finish it faster. (Suggesting a more efficient possibility).오해가 생길 수도 있습니다.(ohaega saenggil sudo isseumnida.) – Misunderstandings can also arise. (Acknowledging a potential negative outcome).
- 1Polite Requests or Suggestions (Indirectly): When forming questions with
-(으)ㄹ 수 있다, it can function as a polite way to ask someone to do something, inquiring about their capacity or willingness without giving a direct command. This is softer than a direct command.
창문 좀 닫아 줄 수 있어요?(changmun jom dada jul su isseoyo?) – Can you close the window for me? (A polite request).다음에 다시 설명해 줄 수 있어요?(daeume dasi seolmyeonghae jul su isseoyo?) – Can you explain it again next time? (A gentle suggestion/request for future action).
-(으)ㄹ 수 있다 can sound like asking for permission in English, in Korean, it generally does not convey direct permission. To ask for or grant permission, the -(아/어)도 되다 pattern is typically used. For example, 화장실에 가도 돼요? ("May I go to the restroom?") is correct, whereas 화장실에 갈 수 있어요? would literally mean "Are you physically capable of going to the restroom?" or "Is it possible for me to go to the restroom (e.g., is it open)?" – which sounds awkward if you're asking for permission.Common Mistakes
(으)ㄹ 수 있다/없다. Being aware of these pitfalls can significantly accelerate your mastery of the pattern.- 1Incorrect Spacing: This is perhaps the most frequent error. Because
수is a dependent noun, it must always be separated from the preceding verb modifier by a space.
- Incorrect:
갈수있어요(galsu isseoyo) – The absence of space makes수appear as part of the verb. - Correct:
갈 수 있어요(gal su isseoyo) –갈(adnominal form of가다) correctly modifies the noun수. - Why it's wrong: Treating
수as part of the verb ending misunderstands its grammatical nature as an independent semantic unit that requires modification.
- 1Confusion with
못vs.(으)ㄹ 수 없다: Both express inability or impossibility, but they carry slightly different nuances.
못(mot): This is a short-form negative adverb placed directly before a verb. It generally implies that an action cannot be done due to external circumstances, lack of will, or a strong prohibition. It often feels more definitive or abrupt.오늘 못 가요.(oneul mot gayo.) – I cannot go today (e.g., I'm sick, I have another appointment, or I simply don't want to).(으)ㄹ 수 없다: This form describes the absence of ability or possibility more formally or descriptively. It can be due to internal lack of skill, physical limitation, or external factors, but its tone is generally less emphatic than못.오늘은 갈 수 없어요.(oneureun gal su eopseoyo.) – I cannot go today (e.g., it's not possible due to scheduling, or I lack the physical ability). Often interchangeable with못, but(으)ㄹ 수 없다can feel slightly more objective.- Why the confusion: Both translate to "cannot."
못is more common in casual, everyday speech for simple negative statements of inability, while(으)ㄹ 수 없다provides a more structured and sometimes slightly more polite or explanatory negative.
- 1Confusion with
-(으)ㄹ 줄 알다/모르다: This is a critical distinction that many learners struggle with, as both patterns deal with "ability."
(으)ㄹ 줄 알다(to know how to do): This pattern specifically refers to a learned skill or acquired knowledge. It's about knowing the method or having been taught how to perform an action.저는 운전할 줄 알아요.(jeoneun unjeonhal jul arayo.) – I know how to drive. (Implies I learned and possess the skill).(으)ㄹ 수 있다(to be able to do): This pattern refers to the general capacity, physical ability, or situational possibility to perform an action. It doesn't necessarily imply learned skill, but rather current capability or enabling circumstances.지금 운전할 수 있어요.(jigeum unjeonhal su isseoyo.) – I can drive right now. (Implies I'm physically capable, have a car, and am sober, etc., but doesn't only mean I know how to drive).- Why the confusion: In English, "I can drive" can mean both "I know how to drive" and "I am able to drive right now." Korean explicitly separates these concepts. If you're talking about a skill you've acquired (like speaking a language, cooking, playing an instrument),
-(으)ㄹ 줄 알다is often the more natural choice. If you're talking about current capacity or whether circumstances allow it,-(으)ㄹ 수 있다is correct.
- 1Using
-(으)ㄹ 수 있다?for Permission: As noted earlier,(으)ㄹ 수 있다?does not directly ask for permission. It asks about the feasibility or possibility.
- Incorrect:
여기 앉을 수 있어요?(yeogi anjeul su isseoyo?) – (Asking permission to sit.) This would literally mean "Is it possible to sit here?" or "Am I physically able to sit here?" which is awkward if you mean "May I?" - Correct:
여기 앉아도 돼요?(yeogi anja-do dwaeyo?) – May I sit here? (Uses the permission pattern). - Why it's wrong: It's a direct transfer of English "can I?" which is ambiguous. Korean maintains a clear distinction between asking about ability/possibility and asking for authorization.
ㄷㄹ, ㅂ → ㅜ) before attaching -(으)ㄹ can lead to unnatural-sounding or incorrect forms. Review the formation pattern carefully for these verbs.Real Conversations
Observing (으)ㄹ 수 있다/없다 in natural dialogue highlights its versatility across different registers and contexts. Note the use of both polite informal (-아요/-어요) and formal polite (-ㅂ니다/-습니다) endings, as well as common contractions and particles.
1. Expressing Ability in Casual Settings (해체 - haech'e)
- 친구 A: 야, 너 그 게임 진짜 잘 하더라! 그렇게 어려운 미션을 어떻게 깰 수 있어? (ya, neo geu geim jinja jal hadeora! geureoke eoryeoun misseoneul eotteoke kkael su isseo?)
- Hey, you're really good at that game! How can you clear such difficult missions?
- 친구 B: 연습을 많이 해서 이제는 웬만한 건 다 깰 수 있어. 너도 할 수 있어! (yeonseubeul mani haeseo ijeneun wenmanhan geon da kkael su isseo. neodo hal su isseo!)
- I practiced a lot, so now I can clear most of them. You can do it too!
2. Discussing Situational Possibility in Formal Contexts (합니다체 - hamnida-ch'e)
- 직원 A: 과장님, 오늘까지 이 보고서를 다 작성할 수 있겠습니까? (gwajangnim, oneulkaji i bogoseoreul da jakseonghal su itgetseumnikka?)
- Manager, will I be able to finish writing this report by today?
- 과장님: 솔직히 말씀드리면, 지금으로서는 어려울 것 같습니다. 다음 주 초까지는 가능할 수 있습니다. (soljiki malsseumdeurimyeon, jigeumeuroseoneun eoryeoul geot gatseumnida. daeum ju chokkajineun ganeunghal su isseumnida.)
- To be honest, it seems difficult for now. It might be possible by early next week.
3. Everyday Questions and Answers (Polite Informal - 해요체 - haeyoch'e)
- A: 이거 혼자서 들 수 있어요? 제가 도와드릴까요? (igeo honjaseo deul su isseoyo? jega dowadeurilkkayo?)
- Can you lift this by yourself? Shall I help you?
- B: 아니요, 괜찮아요. 충분히 들 수 있어요. 고맙습니다! (aniyo, gwaench'anayo. ch'ungbunhi deul su isseoyo. gomapseumnida!)
- No, it's okay. I can definitely lift it. Thank you!
- A: 지금 결제할 수 있는 방법이 어떤 게 있을까요? (jigeum gyeoljehal su inneun bangbeop-i eotteon ge isseulkkayo?)
- What payment methods can I use right now?
- B: 카드 결제와 현금 결제 모두 가능합니다. (kadeu gyeolje-wa hyeongeum gyeolje modu ganeunghamnida.) (Here, 가능하다 (to be possible) is often used as a simpler alternative)
- Card payment and cash payment are both possible.
4. Texting and Social Media Usage
- 오늘 약속 못 지킬 수 있을 것 같아요 ㅠㅠ 미안! (oneul yaksok mot jikil su isseul geot gat'ayo t_t mian!) – I don't think I can keep my promise today T_T Sorry!
- (Note the common combination of 못 with -(으)ㄹ 수 있다 to emphasize possibility of inability)
- 이 카페 어디서 찾을 수 있어요? 지도에 안 보이네요. (i kape eodiseo ch'ajeul su isseoyo? jidoe an boineyo.) – Where can I find this cafe? I don't see it on the map.
Cultural Insight
-(으)ㄹ 수 있다/없다 in questions to politely probe another person's availability or capacity without putting them on the spot. Asking ~할 수 있어요? is generally more indirect and hence often more polite than a direct request or command, particularly when speaking to someone of higher status or a new acquaintance. It gives the other person an easier way to decline if the circumstances don't permit.Quick FAQ
(으)ㄹ 수 있다/없다, designed to clarify common points of confusion.- Q: How do I make
(으)ㄹ 수 있다past tense? - A: You conjugate the existence verb
있다to its past tense form:있었다(or없었다for negative). So, the pattern becomes(으)ㄹ 수 있었다/없었다. This indicates that an ability or possibility existed (or didn't exist) in the past. 어제는 바빠서 영화를 볼 수 없었어요.(eoje-neun bappaseo yeonghwareul bol su eopseosseoyo.) – I was busy yesterday, so I couldn't watch a movie.어릴 때는 수영을 잘 할 수 있었어요.(eoril ttaeneun suyeongeul jal hal su isseosseoyo.) – When I was young, I could swim well.
- Q: What about future tense with
(으)ㄹ 수 있다? - A: The
-(으)ㄹadnominal ending already carries a sense of potential or future orientation. To express a more definitive future ability or possibility, you can add future conjecture endings like-(으)ㄹ 거예요or-(으)ㄹ 것 같아요to있다. 내일은 시간이 있어서 갈 수 있을 거예요.(naeil-eun sigani isseoseo gal su isseul geoyeyo.) – I'll have time tomorrow, so I'll probably be able to go.아마 밤늦게까지 일해야 할 것 같아서 못 만날 수 있을 것 같아요.(ama bamneukkekkaji ilhaeya hal geot gat'aseo mot mannal su isseul geot gat'ayo.) – I think I'll have to work until late tonight, so I probably won't be able to meet.
- Q: Can
수ever be used without-(으)ㄹ? - A: Yes, but not in this grammatical pattern.
수as a standalone noun can appear in other contexts, for example, meaning "number" (e.g.,몇 수?– how many moves/turns?), or in idioms. However, for expressing ability or possibility with a verb, it always requires the-(으)ㄹadnominal ending to modify it.
- Q: Is
그럴 수 있다a common phrase? What does it mean? - A: Yes,
그럴 수 있다(geureol su itta) is very common. It means "That can happen," "That's possible," or "It's understandable." It's often used to acknowledge a situation or statement as plausible or within the realm of possibility. A: 제가 실수한 것 같아요. B: 그럴 수 있어요. 너무 걱정하지 마세요.(A: jega silsuhan geot gat'ayo. B: geureol su isseoyo. neomu geokjeonghaji maseyo.) – A: I think I made a mistake. B: That can happen. Don't worry too much.
- Q: When someone says
말도 안 돼!(maldo an dwae!) – how is that related to(으)ㄹ 수 없다? - A:
말도 안 돼!literally means "Speech/words don't make sense!" or "That can't be said!" It's an idiomatic expression of disbelief or outrage, akin to "No way!" or "That's ridiculous!" While it conveys a strong sense of impossibility, it's more about logical absurdity or incredulity than a direct inability. The안 돼here is안 되다(to not become/work out/be allowed), not없다. - Compare:
그런 일은 일어날 수 없어.(geureon ireun ireonal su eopseo.) – Such a thing cannot happen. (States impossibility objectively.) 말도 안 되는 소리 하지 마!(maldo an doeneun sori haji ma!) – Don't say such nonsense! (Expresses strong disbelief/rejection).
- Q: How does
(으)ㄹ 수 있다relate to the concept of "opportunity"? - A: While
(으)ㄹ 수 있다focuses on ability and possibility, it inherently touches upon opportunity when conditions allow for an action. If수is understood as "means" or "way," then an opportunity is a circumstance that provides that "way." For example,이번 주말에 만날 수 있는 기회가 있어요.(ibeon jumal-e mannal su inneun gihoega isseoyo.) – There's an opportunity to meet this weekend. Here,수 있는modifies기회(opportunity), showing the connection.
- Q: Can I use
(으)ㄹ 수 없다to say "I don't have something"? - A: No,
(으)ㄹ 수 없다is specifically for verb actions and states (ability/possibility). To say "I don't have something," you simply use없다with the object particle이/가or은/는. For example,돈이 없어요.(doni eopseoyo.) – I don't have money. Do not say돈을 가질 수 없어요unless you mean "I can't possess money" (e.g., due to a legal restriction).
(으)ㄹ 수 있다/없다 from similar-sounding English phrases and other Korean grammar patterns, you can use it with precision and confidence in a wide range of communicative situations.Conjugation of Ability
| Verb Stem | Ending | Affirmative | Negative |
|---|---|---|---|
|
가다 (go)
|
ㄹ
|
갈 수 있다
|
갈 수 없다
|
|
먹다 (eat)
|
을
|
먹을 수 있다
|
먹을 수 없다
|
|
하다 (do)
|
ㄹ
|
할 수 있다
|
할 수 없다
|
|
듣다 (listen)
|
을
|
들을 수 있다
|
들을 수 없다
|
|
만들다 (make)
|
ㄹ
|
만들 수 있다
|
만들 수 없다
|
|
읽다 (read)
|
을
|
읽을 수 있다
|
읽을 수 없다
|
Common Spoken Contractions
| Full Form | Spoken Form |
|---|---|
|
갈 수 있어요
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갈 수 있어요 (no change)
|
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먹을 수 없어요
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못 먹어요 (common alternative)
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Meanings
This grammar pattern indicates the capability, possibility, or permission to perform an action.
Physical Ability
Possessing the skill or physical capacity to perform an action.
“저는 수영할 수 있어요.”
“그는 피아노를 칠 수 있어요.”
Possibility/Circumstance
Whether a situation allows for an action to occur.
“내일 만날 수 있어요.”
“이 식당은 예약할 수 없어요.”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Affirmative
|
Stem + ㄹ/을 수 있다
|
갈 수 있어요
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Negative
|
Stem + ㄹ/을 수 없다
|
갈 수 없어요
|
|
Question
|
Stem + ㄹ/을 수 있어요?
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갈 수 있어요?
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|
Past Affirmative
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Stem + ㄹ/을 수 있었다
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갈 수 있었어요
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Past Negative
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Stem + ㄹ/을 수 없었다
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갈 수 없었어요
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|
Formal
|
Stem + ㄹ/을 수 있습니다
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갈 수 있습니다
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Formality Spectrum
갈 수 있습니다. (General)
갈 수 있어요. (General)
갈 수 있어. (General)
갈 수 있음. (General)
Ability Concept Map
Skills
- 운전하다 drive
- 수영하다 swim
Possibility
- 만나다 meet
- 가다 go
Examples by Level
저는 한국어를 할 수 있어요.
I can speak Korean.
수영할 수 있어요?
Can you swim?
지금 갈 수 없어요.
I cannot go now.
매운 음식을 먹을 수 있어요.
I can eat spicy food.
내일은 시간이 있어서 만날 수 있어요.
I have time tomorrow, so I can meet.
이 가방은 너무 무거워서 들 수 없어요.
This bag is too heavy, so I cannot lift it.
도서관에서 크게 말할 수 없어요.
You cannot speak loudly in the library.
어디서 표를 살 수 있나요?
Where can I buy a ticket?
그분은 영어를 유창하게 말할 수 있습니다.
That person can speak English fluently.
상황이 바뀌어서 계획을 변경할 수밖에 없어요.
The situation changed, so I have no choice but to change the plan.
이 기계는 고칠 수 있는 사람이 없어요.
There is no one who can fix this machine.
비가 와서 등산을 할 수 없게 되었어요.
Because it rained, we ended up not being able to go hiking.
정부의 정책은 국민의 삶을 개선할 수 있는 잠재력이 있습니다.
The government's policy has the potential to improve the lives of citizens.
그가 거짓말을 했을 리가 없다고 생각합니다.
I think it is impossible that he lied.
모든 가능성을 고려할 수 있어야 합니다.
You must be able to consider all possibilities.
이론적으로는 가능하지만 실제로는 실행할 수 없습니다.
Theoretically it is possible, but practically it cannot be executed.
그의 행동은 도저히 이해할 수 없는 수준입니다.
His behavior is at a level that is impossible to understand.
우리는 더 나은 미래를 건설할 수 있는 역량을 갖추고 있습니다.
We possess the capability to build a better future.
그 사실을 부정할 수 있는 증거는 어디에도 없습니다.
There is no evidence anywhere that can deny that fact.
어떤 상황에서도 평정심을 유지할 수 있어야 진정한 리더입니다.
A true leader must be able to maintain composure in any situation.
언어의 경계를 넘어 소통할 수 있다는 것은 인간의 위대한 능력입니다.
The ability to communicate across language boundaries is a great human capacity.
그의 문학적 성취는 당대 누구도 범접할 수 없는 경지에 이르렀습니다.
His literary achievement reached a level that no one of his time could touch.
역사의 흐름을 바꿀 수 있는 것은 결국 개인의 의지입니다.
What can change the flow of history is ultimately individual will.
그는 누구도 예측할 수 없는 방식으로 사건을 전개시켰습니다.
He unfolded the events in a way that no one could predict.
Easily Confused
Both involve ability, but '줄 알다' means 'know how to'.
Both mean 'cannot'.
Learners try to use the noun '가능성' as a verb.
Common Mistakes
가수 있어요
갈 수 있어요
먹을수있어요
먹을 수 있어요
가다 수 있어요
갈 수 있어요
먹을 수 있다요
먹을 수 있어요
갈 수 없어요
갈 수 없어요 (Correct, but check context)
할 수 있습니까?
할 수 있어요?
갈 수 있었어요
갈 수 있었어요 (Correct)
갈 수 있는다
갈 수 있다
갈 수 없게
갈 수 없어서
갈 수 있겠어요
갈 수 있어요
갈 수 있는 리가 없다
갈 리가 없다
갈 수 없지 않다
갈 수 있다
갈 수 있을 것이다
갈 수 있다
갈 수 있는 중이다
갈 수 있다
Sentence Patterns
저는 ___을/를 할 수 있어요.
지금은 ___할 수 없어요.
___할 수 있는 사람이 있어요?
___할 수 없게 되었습니다.
Real World Usage
오늘 만날 수 있어?
한국어를 할 수 있습니다.
여기서 사진을 찍을 수 있나요?
매운 맛을 조절할 수 있어요?
누구나 참여할 수 있어요!
이 결과를 분석할 수 없습니다.
Space matters
Don't over-use
Formal speech
Politeness
Smart Tips
Use '못' to sound more natural.
Use 'ㄹ/을 수 있어요?'
Use 'ㄹ/을 수 없습니다'.
Use 'ㄹ/을 리가 없어요'.
Pronunciation
Liaison
The ㄹ in {수} often links to the vowel in {있다}.
Question
갈 수 있어요? ↑
Rising intonation for yes/no questions.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Remember 'ㄹ/을' as the 'bridge' to the 'way' (수). If you have a bridge, you can cross (있다)!
Visual Association
Imagine a person standing before a closed door. They have a key (ㄹ/을). They insert it into the lock (수) and the door opens (있다).
Rhyme
Vowel gets a ㄹ, consonant gets an 을, add 수 있다, and you're done, my pal!
Story
Min-su wanted to climb a mountain. He asked, 'Can I climb?' (갈 수 있어요?). His friend said, 'Yes, you have the gear' (갈 수 있어요). Min-su climbed the mountain successfully.
Word Web
Challenge
Write 5 sentences about things you can and cannot do today.
Cultural Notes
Koreans often use '못' for personal inability to be polite, as 'ㄹ/을 수 없다' can sound like you are blaming the situation.
The construction comes from the noun '수' (way/method) and the verb '있다' (to exist).
Conversation Starters
한국어를 할 수 있어요?
오늘 저녁에 만날 수 있어요?
이 식당에서 무엇을 먹을 수 있어요?
어떤 운동을 할 수 있어요?
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
저는 수영할 ___ 있어요.
먹다 -> ?
Find and fix the mistake:
가수있어요
Arrange the words in the correct order:
All words placed
Click words above to build the sentence
I can go.
Answer starts with: 갈 수...
읽다 -> ?
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Use '만나다' and '내일'.
Score: /8
Practice Exercises
8 exercises저는 수영할 ___ 있어요.
먹다 -> ?
Find and fix the mistake:
가수있어요
있어요 / 수 / 한국어를 / 할
I can go.
읽다 -> ?
보다
Use '만나다' and '내일'.
Score: /8
Practice Bank
12 exercises창문을 ___ 수 있어요? (Can you open the window?)
이해할 수 없어요.
운전할 / 있어요 / 수 / 저는
매운 거 먹ㄹ 수 있어요.
너무 피곤해서 ___ 수 없어요. (I'm too tired so I can't walk.)
Can you see?
Match correctly.
Choose the sentence that means 'I cannot do it'.
우리를 ___ 수 있어요? (Can you help us?)
갈수없어요.
여기서 / 수 / 만날 / 있어요?
Can you come?
Score: /12
FAQ (8)
Yes, it means 'way' or 'method'.
Because '수' is a noun and '있다' is a verb.
Yes, it's very versatile.
It can be formal or informal depending on the ending.
Use 'ㄹ/을 수 없다'.
It depends on the nuance.
Yes, context implies the time.
Yes, very common.
Scaffolded Practice
1
2
3
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
Poder
Spanish uses a single verb, Korean uses a multi-word structure.
Pouvoir
Korean requires a particle marker (ㄹ/을) before the noun.
Können
Korean is more descriptive of the 'way' existing.
～ことができる
The particles differ (ga vs. ㄹ/을).
يستطيع (yastati')
Arabic is verb-initial, Korean is verb-final.
能 (néng) / 会 (huì)
Chinese does not conjugate the main verb.
Learning Path
Prerequisites
Continue With
Can & Cannot in Korean: The ㄹ/을 수 있다/없다 Pattern
Overview Mastering the Korean expressions for 'can' and 'cannot' is fundamental for A2-level learners. The `-(으)ㄹ 수...
Need to / No need to (-eul pil-yo-ga it-da)
Overview Korean speakers frequently employ the grammatical pattern `(으)ㄹ 필요가 있다` (eul pil-yo-ga it-da) to express...
Can't Help But (-지 않을 수 없다)
Overview This grammar pattern, `-지 않을 수 없다` (`-ji anheul su eopda`), is a sophisticated structure used to express...
There's No Way... (-ㄹ 리가 없다)
Overview `-(으)ㄹ 리가 없다` is a core Korean grammar pattern used to express strong disbelief, denial, or a firm convic...
No choice but to... (-ㄹ/을 수밖에 없다)
Overview The Korean grammar pattern `-(으)ㄹ 수밖에 없다` is a powerful expression of inevitability. It conveys that du...
Cannot possibly: Total impossibility (-ㄹ/을 수가 없다)
Overview The Korean grammar pattern **`(-ㄹ/을 수가 없다)`** (romanized: `(-l/eul su-ga eopda)`) is used to express **to...
Related Grammar Rules
No choice but to... (-ㄹ/을 수밖에 없다)
Overview The Korean grammar pattern `-(으)ㄹ 수밖에 없다` is a powerful expression of inevitability. It conveys that du...
Present Progressive: -ing (고 있다)
Overview Korean, like English, distinguishes between habitual or general actions and actions that are actively in progre...
To the Absolute Max: (-ㄹ/을 대로)
Overview Korean grammar employs `-(ㄹ/을) 대로` to express that a state or action has reached its absolute **utmost limi...
Just/Only: Emphatic Limitation (-ㄹ/을 뿐이다)
Overview At the B2 CEFR level in Korean, you're moving beyond basic sentence construction to express nuanced ideas, subt...
Logically Likely: -ㄹ/을 법하다
Overview `-(으)ㄹ 법하다` is a Korean grammar pattern that expresses a logical likelihood, plausibility, or reasonable e...
