Meaning
An encouraging phrase to assure someone of their capability.
Cultural Background
The phrase is deeply linked to the 'Pali-pali' (hurry-hurry) culture where efficiency and capability are highly valued. Teachers often use this to build confidence in students during high-pressure exam seasons. In meetings, saying '할 수 있습니다' is a sign of commitment and reliability to your team.
Verb Placement
Always put the verb before '할 수 있어요'. For example: '요리' (cooking) -> '요리할 수 있어요'.
The '줄 알다' distinction
Use '할 줄 알아요' for learned skills like playing piano, and '할 수 있어요' for general ability or possibility.
Meaning
An encouraging phrase to assure someone of their capability.
Verb Placement
Always put the verb before '할 수 있어요'. For example: '요리' (cooking) -> '요리할 수 있어요'.
The '줄 알다' distinction
Use '할 줄 알아요' for learned skills like playing piano, and '할 수 있어요' for general ability or possibility.
Tone Matters
In Korea, the tone of voice is just as important as the words. Say it with a smile to make it truly encouraging.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence: '저는 한국어를 _____.'
저는 한국어를 _____.
This is the correct polite conjugation for ability.
Which is the most natural way to encourage a friend?
Choose the best option:
The polite form is standard for encouragement.
Complete the response: A: '이거 너무 어려워요.' B: '_____!'
B: _____!
This provides the necessary encouragement.
Match the form to the register.
Match: 1. 할 수 있습니다 2. 할 수 있어
Understand the social hierarchy of Korean endings.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises저는 한국어를 _____.
This is the correct polite conjugation for ability.
Choose the best option:
The polite form is standard for encouragement.
B: _____!
This provides the necessary encouragement.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Understand the social hierarchy of Korean endings.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsYes, it is very versatile for any action.
It is polite, but '할 수 있습니다' is safer.
That is the informal version for friends.
No, it means 'I can'. Use '할게요' for 'I will'.
Yes, it is a classic line in almost every drama.
No, it is for human actions.
Add '못' or '없어요'.
No, it is one of the first phrases learners master.
Related Phrases
할 수 없다
contrastCannot do
해낼 수 있다
builds onCan accomplish
할 수 있을까?
similarCan I do it?
