A1 Complement System 15 min read Easy

Can you handle it? (Verb + de liǎo)

Use Verb + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo) to talk about what you can or cannot realistically handle.
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Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

Use {得|de} {了|liǎo} after a verb to express that you have the ability or capacity to complete an action.

  • Affirmative: Verb + {得|de} {了|liǎo} (I can finish it: {我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo})
  • Negative: Verb + {不|bù} {了|liǎo} (I cannot finish it: {我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo})
  • Question: Verb + {得|de} {了|liǎo} + {吗|ma}? (Can you finish it?: {你|nǐ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {吗|ma}?)
Verb + 得 + 了 (Ability to finish)

Overview

In Chinese grammar, the pattern Verb + 得了(déliǎo) and its negative form Verb + 不了(bùliǎo) constitute a vital component of the potential complement system. These structures indicate whether an action can or cannot be completed, or its intended result achieved, primarily due to objective circumstances or limitations.

Unlike simply stating a general ability or skill, 得了(déliǎo) and 不了(bùliǎo) focus on the immediate, practical feasibility of an action in a given situation. This grammar point reveals if an action is objectively possible to finish or manage, considering factors like physical capacity, available time, space, or external conditions. Mastery of this structure significantly enhances your fluency, allowing you to express nuanced ideas about capability and constraint in everyday conversation.

Think of it as assessing the 'doability' of a verb's action. Can you finish eating that much? Can you manage to get there?

The 了 (liǎo) component, crucial to this structure, originates from a classical Chinese verb meaning "to finish," "to conclude," or "to be able to accomplish." This historical meaning underpins its function here, signaling whether the verb's action can reach a state of completion or resolution.

How This Grammar Works

This grammatical construction acts as a post-verbal complement, directly following the main action verb. It uses the structural particle 得(de) to indicate possibility and 不(bù) to indicate impossibility, connecting the verb to the result particle 了(liǎo). The unique sound and meaning of 了(liǎo) in this pattern are critical and often confuse learners.
The core elements are:
  • The Verb: The action you are attempting to perform or consider.
  • 得(de) (for positive potential) or 不(bù) (for negative potential): These function as markers to indicate the feasibility of achieving the verb's result.
  • 了(liǎo) (third tone): This is the resultative particle. Crucially, it is pronounced liǎo (third tone), not le (neutral tone), which is the common aspect marker for completed actions or a sentence-final particle. Here, 了(liǎo) carries its older meaning of "to finish," "to manage," or "to accomplish." When combined with 得(de) or 不(bù), it asks or states whether the action can reach this state of completion or management.
For example, if you say {吃得了 (chīdéliǎo)}, you are asserting that you can finish eating, or can manage the act of eating, perhaps a large meal. Conversely, {吃不了 (chībùliǎo)} means you cannot finish or cannot manage eating that amount, perhaps because you are too full. The focus is not on your general ability to eat, but on the practical feasibility of completing the specific eating task under the current conditions.
This structure is often used when a physical or external limit is the determining factor.
Consider these examples:
  • 这份工作太多了，我一个人做不了。 (Zhè fèn gōngzuò tài duō le, wǒ yīgè rén zuòbùliǎo.)
"This work is too much, I alone cannot finish it."
(Here, 做不了 (zuòbùliǎo) indicates an objective limitation of workload and individual capacity.)
  • 这个箱子很轻，你拿得了。 (Zhège xiāngzi hěn qīng, nǐ nádéliǎo.)
"This box is very light, you can carry it."
(Here, 拿得了 (nádéliǎo) indicates the objective physical possibility for the listener.)

Formation Pattern

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The formation of these potential complements is straightforward, following a fixed order:
2
Basic Structure:
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| Type | Pattern | Example (Verb: 吃(chī) - to eat) | Example (Verb: 去(qù) - to go) |
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| :-------- | :------------------------ | :---------------------------------- | :--------------------------------- |
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| Positive | Verb + 得 + 了 (liǎo) | {吃得了 (chīdéliǎo)} | {去得了 (qùdéliǎo)} |
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| Negative | Verb + 不 + 了 (bùliǎo) | {吃不了 (chībùliǎo)} | {去不了 (qùbùliǎo)} |
7
| Question (General) | Verb + 得 + 了 (liǎo) + 吗? (ma?) | {吃得了吗? (chīdéliǎo ma?)} | {去得了吗? (qùdéliǎo ma?)} |
8
| Question (A-not-A) | Verb + 得 + 了 (liǎo) + Verb + 不 + 了 (bùliǎo)? | {吃得了吃不了? (chīdéliǎo chībùliǎo?)} | {去得了去不了? (qùdéliǎo qùbùliǎo?)} |
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Important Note on Object Placement:
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When an object is present, it always comes after the entire potential complement. This is a crucial rule to remember to avoid common errors.
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Correct Object Placement:
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Verb + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo) + Object
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Examples:
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我吃得了三碗饭。 (Wǒ chīdéliǎo sān wǎn fàn.)
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"I can eat three bowls of rice."
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(饭 (fàn) is the object, placed after 吃得了 (chīdéliǎo).)
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我听不了嘈杂的声音。 (Wǒ tīngbùliǎo cáozá de shēngyīn.)
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"I cannot stand noisy sounds."
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(嘈杂的声音 (cáozá de shēngyīn) is the object phrase, placed after 听不了 (tīngbùliǎo).)
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他今天来得了公司吗？ (Tā jīntiān láidéliǎo gōngsī ma?)
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"Can he come to the company today?"
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(公司 (gōngsī) is the object, placed after 来得了 (láidéliǎo).)
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Incorrect Object Placement (Common Mistake):
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Do not place the object between the verb and the complement (e.g., 吃饭不了 (chīfàn bùliǎo) is incorrect).

When To Use It

The Verb + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo) construction is used in situations where the objective feasibility of an action's completion or outcome is in question. It addresses whether current circumstances permit or hinder the successful execution of an action. This differs significantly from expressing general ability or permission.
Here are the primary scenarios for its use:
1. Physical Capacity or Endurance:
When assessing if someone has the physical strength, stamina, or capacity to perform an action or withstand its effects.
  • 这个包太重了，我拿不了。 (Zhège bāo tài zhòng le, wǒ nábùliǎo.)
"This bag is too heavy, I can't carry it."
(Implies lack of physical strength.)
  • 我今天加班太晚了，明天早上起不了那么早。 (Wǒ jīntiān jiābān tài wǎn le, míngtiān zǎoshang qǐbùliǎo nàme zǎo.)
"I worked overtime too late today, tomorrow morning I can't get up that early."
(Implies lack of physical ability/stamina to wake early.)
2. Time or Space Constraints:
When the availability of time or space determines whether an action can be completed.
  • 这么短的时间，我写不了这么多报告。 (Zhème duǎn de shíjiān, wǒ xiěbùliǎo zhème duō bàogào.)
"In such a short time, I can't write so many reports."
(Implies insufficient time.)
  • 这间屋子太小了，住不了三个人。 (Zhè jiān wūzi tài xiǎo le, zhùbùliǎo sān gè rén.)
"This room is too small, three people can't live in it."
(Implies insufficient space.)
3. Environmental or Circumstantial Obstacles:
When external conditions make an action impossible or feasible.
  • 外面下大雨，我们今天去不了海边了。 (Wàimiàn xià dàyǔ, wǒmen jīntiān qùbùliǎo hǎibiān le.)
"It's raining heavily outside, we can't go to the seaside today."
(Implies an objective weather condition prevents the action.)
  • 我的手机没电了，看不了地图。 (Wǒ de shǒujī méi diàn le, kànbùliǎo dìtú.)
"My phone is out of power, I can't see the map."
(Implies a device-related objective constraint.)
4. Emotional or Psychological Capacity (often with 受(shòu) - to bear/endure):
While less literal, it can express the inability to emotionally tolerate something.
  • 他这个人太吵了，我真受不了。 (Tā zhège rén tài chǎo le, wǒ zhēn shòubùliǎo.)
"This person is too noisy, I really can't stand it."
(Implies a limit to emotional tolerance.)
5. Polite Refusal or Explanation:
It offers a polite way to decline an invitation or request by explaining that circumstances, rather than unwillingness, prevent participation. This is a common cultural nuance, as directly refusing can sometimes be seen as impolite.
  • 对不起，我今晚有事，来不了你的派对。 (Duìbuqǐ, wǒ jīn wǎn yǒushì, láibùliǎo nǐ de pàiduì.)
"Sorry, I have something tonight, I can't come to your party."
(Implies a prior commitment makes attending impossible.)
This construction provides a robust tool for communicating practical constraints, making your Chinese sound more natural and empathetic to objective difficulties.

Common Mistakes

Learners frequently encounter specific challenges when using Verb + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo). Understanding these common pitfalls and their underlying reasons is essential for accurate usage.
1. Mispronunciation and Confusion of 了(liǎo) with 了(le):
This is perhaps the most frequent error. The 了(liǎo) in this complement is always pronounced with a third tone (liǎo) and carries the meaning of "to finish/manage." It is distinct from the neutral tone 了(le), which functions as an aspect particle (indicating completion of an action) or a sentence-final particle (indicating a change of state or emphasis).
  • Correct: 他吃不了这么多。 (Tā chībùliǎo zhème duō.) "He cannot eat this much." (liǎo, third tone)
  • Incorrect: 他吃不了这么多。 (Tā chī bu le zhème duō.) (If le is neutral tone, it's incorrect.)
  • Distinguishing Example:
  • 他吃了饭。 (Tā chī le fàn.) "He ate the meal." (le, neutral tone, aspect marker)
  • 他吃得了饭。 (Tā chīdéliǎo fàn.) "He can eat the meal (e.g., has the appetite/capacity)." (liǎo, third tone, potential complement)
2. Confusing with 能(néng) or 会(huì):
While all three relate to capability, their nuances are distinct:
  • 能(néng): Expresses general ability (e.g., 我能说汉语 (Wǒ néng shuō Hànyǔ) - "I can speak Chinese"), possibility (e.g., 天气好，我们能去。 (Tiānqì hǎo, wǒmen néng qù.) - "The weather is good, we can go."), or permission (e.g., 这里不能吸烟。 (Zhèlǐ bù néng xīyān.) - "No smoking here."). It doesn't necessarily imply the completion of an action due to objective constraints.
  • 会(huì): Primarily indicates a learned skill (e.g., 我会开车。 (Wǒ huì kāichē.) - "I can drive a car") or a future likelihood/prediction (e.g., 明天会下雨。 (Míngtiān huì xià yǔ.) - "It will rain tomorrow.").
  • Verb + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo): Specifically addresses whether an action can be completed or its result achieved given objective circumstances or limitations. It's about the practical feasibility right now.
| Feature | V + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo) | 能(néng) | 会(huì) |
| :------------- | :---------------------- | :--------------------------------- | :-------------------------------- |
| Focus | Objective feasibility/capacity | General ability, possibility, permission | Learned skill, future likelihood |
| Limitation | External/situational | Internal (skill), external (rules) | N/A (skill acquired) |
| Example | 我吃不了了。 (I'm too full to eat more.) | 我不能吃花生。 (I can't eat peanuts - allergy/permission.) | 我会做饭。 (I know how to cook.) |
3. Incorrect Object Placement:
As mentioned in Formation Pattern, placing the object before the 得/不 + 了 (liǎo) complement is incorrect. The entire complement acts as a unit after the verb.
  • Incorrect: 我吃面条不了。 (Wǒ chī miàntiáo bùliǎo.)
  • Correct: 我吃不了面条。 (Wǒ chībùliǎo miàotiáo.) "I can't eat the noodles (e.g., too many, don't like them)."
4. Using with Adjectives:
Verb + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo) is exclusively for verbs. It cannot be used directly with adjectives.
  • Incorrect: 他高兴得了。 (Tā gāoxìngdéliǎo.)
  • Correct: (To express a similar idea, you'd use a different construction, e.g., 他高兴得不得了。 (Tā gāoxìng dé bùdéle.) - "He's extremely happy.")
5. Confusing with Other Potential Complements (A1-A2 introduction):
Chinese has a rich system of potential complements. While 得了/不了 is about objective feasibility, others focus on different outcomes.
  • V + 得/不 + R (Resultative Complement): Indicates whether a result (R) can be achieved. Example: 看得懂 (kàndédǒng) "can understand (by looking)" vs. 看不懂 (kànbùdǒng) "cannot understand." This is subtly different from V + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo) as it focuses on the specific result of the verb rather than the overall completion or manageability of the action itself. However, for A1, focus on 得了/不了 as a distinct unit.
By consciously practicing these distinctions, you can avoid common errors and use Verb + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo) accurately and effectively.

Real Conversations

The Verb + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo) construction is ubiquitous in daily Chinese communication, reflecting a natural way native speakers express practical capabilities and limitations. It's found across various contexts, from casual chats to more formal discussions about feasibility. Observing its use in authentic scenarios helps solidify understanding.

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Scenario 1

Making Plans (Texting/Messaging)
A

A

你明天晚上来得了我家吗？我们一起看电影。 (Nǐ míngtiān wǎnshang láidéliǎo wǒ jiā ma? Wǒmen yīqǐ kàn diànyǐng.)

"Can you come to my place tomorrow evening? We can watch a movie together."

B

B

抱歉，我明天要加班，来不了了。 (Bàoqiàn, wǒ míngtiān yào jiābān, láibùliǎo le.)

"Sorry, I have to work overtime tomorrow, I can't come."

(Here, 来不了 (láibùliǎo) clearly indicates an objective time constraint due to work.

S

Scenario 2

Discussing Physical Capacity (Casual Chat)
A

A

哇，这份饭好多啊，你吃得了这么多吗？ (Wa, zhè fèn fàn hǎo duō a, nǐ chīdéliǎo zhème duō ma?)

"Wow, this portion of rice is so big, can you eat this much?"

B

B

我今天很饿，肯定吃得了！ (Wǒ jīn tiān hěn è, kěndìng chīdéliǎo!)

"I'm very hungry today, I can definitely eat it!"

(This conversation directly assesses and confirms physical eating capacity.)

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Scenario 3

Facing a Problem (Work/Study)
A

A

老板，这个项目下周前真的做得了吗？我觉得时间太紧了。 (Lǎobǎn, zhège xiàngmù xià zhōu qián zhēnde zuòdéliǎo ma? Wǒ juéde shíjiān tài jǐn le.)

"Boss, can this project really be done before next week? I think time is too tight."

B

B

嗯，有点难，可能真做不了。 (ǹ, yǒudiǎn nán, kěnéng zhēn zuòbùliǎo.)

"Hmm, it's a bit difficult, maybe it really can't be done."

(Here, 做得了 (zuòdéliǎo) and 做不了 (zuòbùliǎo) refer to the feasibility of completing the project by a deadline.)

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Scenario 4

Expressing Intolerance (Everyday Life)

这里的夏天太热了，我受不了。 (Zhèlǐ de xiàtiān tài rè le, wǒ shòubùliǎo.)

"Summer here is too hot, I can't stand it."

(This uses 受不了 (shòubùliǎo) to express an objective limit to one's tolerance for heat.)

我家的猫很调皮，它每天都吵得我睡不了觉。 (Wǒ jiā de māo hěn tiáopí, tā měitiān dōu chǎo dé wǒ shuìbùliǎo jiào.)

"My cat is very naughty, it makes so much noise every day that I can't sleep."

(The noise is an external factor preventing sleep.)

These examples illustrate how naturally Verb + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo) fits into various communicative needs, providing a concise and idiomatic way to talk about the practicalities of actions.

Quick FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions regarding the Verb + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo) construction, aimed at clarifying common points of confusion.
Q1: Is the 了(liǎo) in 得了/不了 always pronounced with the third tone?
A: Yes, in this specific potential complement structure, 了(liǎo) is always pronounced with the third tone (liǎo). This distinguishes it from the neutral-tone aspect particle 了(le).
Q2: Can 得了 (déliǎo) ever mean "to get sick"?
A: No, not in this grammatical context. The phrase "to get sick" is 得了病 (déle bìng). Here, the character 得(dé) (second tone) means "to obtain" or "to catch" (an illness), and it's followed by the aspect particle 了(le) (neutral tone) and the object 病(bìng).
This is entirely separate from the potential complement Verb + 得 + 了 (liǎo), where 得(de) is a structural particle (usually neutral or second tone, but here functioning as a bridge) and 了(liǎo) is third tone and means "to finish/manage."
Q3: What's the difference between V + 不了 (bùliǎo) and 不能 + V (bù néng + V)?
A: The distinction is subtle but important:
  • V + 不了 (bùliǎo): Emphasizes objective impossibility or practical infeasibility due to external circumstances, physical limitations, time constraints, etc. It's about whether the action can actually be completed under the given conditions.
Example

太晚了，我回不了家了。 (Tài wǎn le, wǒ huíbùliǎo jiā le.) "It's too late, I can't go home (e.g., no buses, too dangerous)." (Objective constraint).

  • 不能 + V (bù néng + V): Can express objective impossibility, but more commonly indicates lack of permission, lack of general ability, or a strong prohibition. The focus is broader.
Example

学生不能带手机。 (Xuésheng bù néng dài shǒujī.) "Students cannot bring cell phones." (Prohibition/rule).

Example

他不能吃辣。 (Tā bù néng chī là.) "He cannot eat spicy food." (General inability/allergy).

Q4: Can this structure be used with abstract verbs like "understand"?
A: Yes, it can, as long as the concept of "finishing" or "managing" the action due to objective factors applies. For example:
  • 这个问题太复杂了，我理解得了。 (Zhège wèntí tài fùzá le, wǒ lǐjiědéliǎo.) "This problem is too complex, I can understand it."
(Implies that despite complexity, one's cognitive capacity is sufficient.)
  • 他的理论我理解不了。 (Tā de lǐlùn wǒ lǐjiěbùliǎo.) "I can't understand his theory."
(Implies the theory is too difficult or abstract for one's current understanding capacity.)
Q5: Is Verb + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo) more formal or informal?
A: It is very common and natural in casual, everyday conversation. It's used frequently by native speakers across various social contexts. While not overtly informal, its directness and focus on practicalities make it a staple of spoken Chinese.
Q6: What if I want to say I shouldn't do something, not that I can't?
A: If it's about what you shouldn't do, or what is not permitted, you would typically use 不应该(bù yìnggāi) (shouldn't) or 不可以(bù kěyǐ) (not allowed/cannot). Verb + 不了 (bùliǎo) strictly refers to an objective inability to complete the action.
  • 我今天不能喝酒。 (Wǒ jīntiān bù néng hējiǔ.) "I cannot drink alcohol today (e.g., because I'm driving or on medication)." (Permission/rule/ability).
  • 我喝不了这么多酒。 (Wǒ hēbùliǎo zhème duō jiǔ.) "I can't drink this much alcohol (e.g., my capacity is limited)." (Objective capacity).
Understanding these distinctions will help you wield Verb + 得/不 + 了 (liǎo) with precision and confidence in your Chinese conversations.

Verb + de liǎo Construction

Form Structure Example Meaning
Affirmative
Verb + 得 + 了
{吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo}
Can finish eating
Negative
Verb + 不 + 了
{吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}
Cannot finish eating
Question
Verb + 得 + 了 + 吗
{吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {吗|ma}
Can you finish eating?
Past/Future
Verb + 得/不 + 了
{做|zuò} {得|de} {了|liǎo}
Can/Cannot do it (tense is context)
Object
Verb + 得/不 + 了 + Obj
{看|kàn} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {书|shū}
Can read the book
Degree
Verb + 得/不 + 了 + Degree
{走|zǒu} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {远|yuǎn}
Can walk far

Common Contractions

Full Shortened Usage
{吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}
{吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}
Standard
{做|zuò} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}
{做|zuò} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}
Standard

Meanings

This structure indicates the capability to complete an action or the physical capacity to handle a task.

1

Completion capability

Having the capacity to finish a task.

“{我|wǒ} {看|kàn} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {本|běn} {书|shū}。”

“{你|nǐ} {做|zuò} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {个|gè} {吗|ma}？”

Reference Table

Reference table for Can you handle it? (Verb + de liǎo)
Form Structure Example
Affirmative
V + 得 + 了
{我|wǒ} {买|mǎi} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {个|gè}。
Negative
V + 不 + 了
{我|wǒ} {买|mǎi} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {个|gè}。
Question
V + 得 + 了 + 吗
{你|nǐ} {买|mǎi} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {吗|ma}？
Short Yes
V + 得 + 了
{买|mǎi} {得|de} {了|liǎo}。
Short No
V + 不 + 了
{买|mǎi} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}。

Formality Spectrum

Formal
{我|wǒ} {能|néng} {完|wán} {成|chéng} {此|cǐ} {项|xiàng} {任|rèn} {务|wu}。

{我|wǒ} {能|néng} {完|wán} {成|chéng} {此|cǐ} {项|xiàng} {任|rèn} {务|wu}。 (Work task)

Neutral
{我|wǒ} {做|zuò} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {个|gè} {任|rèn} {务|wu}。

{我|wǒ} {做|zuò} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {个|gè} {任|rèn} {务|wu}。 (Work task)

Informal
{我|wǒ} {搞|gǎo} {得|de} {定|dìng} {这|zhè} {个|gè}。

{我|wǒ} {搞|gǎo} {得|de} {定|dìng} {这|zhè} {个|gè}。 (Work task)

Slang
{我|wǒ} {没|méi} {问|wèn} {题|tí}。

{我|wǒ} {没|méi} {问|wèn} {题|tí}。 (Work task)

The Potential Complement System

Verb + de liǎo

Positive

  • {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo} Can finish eating

Negative

  • {吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} Cannot finish eating
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Examples by Level

1

{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {个|gè}。

I can finish this.

2

{你|nǐ} {走|zǒu} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {吗|ma}？

Can you walk it?

3

{我|wǒ} {看|kàn} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} {那|nà} {么|me} {多|duō} {字|zì}。

I cannot read that many characters.

4

{他|tā} {做|zuò} {得|de} {了|liǎo}。

He can do it.

1

{这|zhè} {么|me} {重|zhòng}，{我|wǒ} {拿|ná} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}。

It's so heavy, I can't carry it.

2

{你|nǐ} {喝|hē} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {么|me} {多|duō} {咖|kā} {啡|fēi} {吗|ma}？

Can you drink this much coffee?

3

{我|wǒ} {记|jì} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {么|me} {多|duō} {词|cí}。

I can remember this many words.

4

{这|zhè} {个|gè} {电|diàn} {影|yǐng} {我|wǒ} {看|kàn} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} {两|liǎng} {遍|biàn}。

I can't watch this movie twice.

1

{这|zhè} {项|xiàng} {任|rèn} {务|wu} {我|wǒ} {完|wán} {成|chéng} {得|de} {了|liǎo}。

I can complete this task.

2

{他|tā} {跑|pǎo} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {那|nà} {么|me} {远|yuǎn} {吗|ma}？

Can he run that far?

3

{我|wǒ} {应|yìng} {付|fu} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {种|zhǒng} {情|qíng} {况|kuàng}。

I can handle this situation.

4

{这|zhè} {个|gè} {价|jià} {格|gé} {我|wǒ} {接|jiē} {受|shòu} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}。

I cannot accept this price.

1

{这|zhè} {种|zhǒng} {压|yā} {力|lì} {我|wǒ} {承|chéng} {受|shòu} {得|de} {了|liǎo}。

I can bear this kind of pressure.

2

{你|nǐ} {真|zhēn} {的|de} {想|xiǎng} {好|hǎo} {了|le}，{我|wǒ} {阻|zǔ} {止|zhǐ} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} {你|nǐ}。

You've really made up your mind; I can't stop you.

3

{这|zhè} {个|gè} {计|jì} {划|huà} {我|wǒ} {实|shí} {施|shī} {得|de} {了|liǎo}。

I can implement this plan.

4

{他|tā} {的|de} {语|yǔ} {速|sù} {太|tài} {快|kuài}，{我|wǒ} {听|tīng} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} {那|nà} {么|me} {多|duō} {信|xìn} {息|xi}。

He speaks too fast; I can't process that much information.

1

{这|zhè} {样|yàng} {的|de} {变|biàn} {化|huà} {我|wǒ} {适|shì} {应|yìng} {得|de} {了|liǎo}。

I can adapt to such changes.

2

{这|zhè} {个|gè} {问|wèn} {题|tí} {太|tài} {复|fù} {杂|zá}，{我|wǒ} {解|jiě} {决|jué} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}。

This problem is too complex; I cannot solve it.

3

{我|wǒ} {预|yù} {测|cè} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} {未|wèi} {来|lái} {的|de} {市|shì} {场|chǎng} {走|zǒu} {势|shì}。

I cannot predict future market trends.

4

{这|zhè} {种|zhǒng} {文|wén} {化|huà} {冲|chōng} {突|tū} {我|wǒ} {化|huà} {解|jiě} {得|de} {了|liǎo}。

I can resolve this kind of cultural conflict.

1

{这|zhè} {种|zhǒng} {哲|zhé} {学|xué} {思|sī} {辨|biàn} {我|wǒ} {参|cān} {与|yù} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}。

I cannot participate in this kind of philosophical debate.

2

{他|tā} {的|de} {演|yǎn} {讲|jiǎng} {太|tài} {深|shēn} {奥|ào}，{我|wǒ} {理|lǐ} {解|jiě} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} {其|qí} {中|zhōng} {的|de} {精|jīng} {髓|suǐ}。

His lecture is too profound; I cannot grasp its essence.

3

{这|zhè} {种|zhǒng} {历|lì} {史|shǐ} {遗|yí} {留|liú} {问|wèn} {题|tí} {我|wǒ} {承|chéng} {担|dān} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}。

I cannot bear the burden of this historical legacy.

4

{这|zhè} {样|yàng} {的|de} {艺|yì} {术|shù} {风|fēng} {格|gé} {我|wǒ} {欣|xīn} {赏|shǎng} {得|de} {了|liǎo}。

I can appreciate this kind of artistic style.

Easily Confused

Can you handle it? (Verb + de liǎo) vs {能|néng} vs {得|de} {了|liǎo}

Both mean 'can', but {能|néng} is general, {得|de} {了|liǎo} is about finishing.

Can you handle it? (Verb + de liǎo) vs {了|le} vs {了|liǎo}

They look the same but have different tones and meanings.

Can you handle it? (Verb + de liǎo) vs {会|huì} vs {得|de} {了|liǎo}

{会|huì} is for skills, {得|de} {了|liǎo} is for capacity.

Common Mistakes

✗

{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {了|le} {了|liǎo}

✓

{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo}

Don't use the aspect particle {le} with the potential complement.
✗

{我|wǒ} {能|néng} {吃|chī} {了|liǎo}

✓

{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo}

Don't use {能|néng} with {得|de} {了|liǎo}.
✗

{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {le}

✓

{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {liǎo}

Wrong tone for the complement.
✗

{我|wǒ} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {吃|chī}

✓

{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {liǎo}

Wrong word order.
✗

{我|wǒ} {走|zǒu} {得|de} {le} {远|yuǎn}

✓

{我|wǒ} {走|zǒu} {得|de} {liǎo} {远|yuǎn}

Incorrect tone.
✗

{我|wǒ} {不|bù} {吃|chī} {得|de} {liǎo}

✓

{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {不|bù} {liǎo}

Incorrect negative placement.
✗

{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {吗|ma}?

✓

{你|nǐ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {吗|ma}?

Subject mismatch in questions.
✗

{我|wǒ} {完|wán} {成|chéng} {了|le} {得|de} {liǎo}

✓

{我|wǒ} {完|wán} {成|chéng} {得|de} {liǎo}

Redundant particles.
✗

{这|zhè} {个|gè} {事|shì} {我|wǒ} {做|zuò} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {的|de}

✓

{这|zhè} {个|gè} {事|shì} {我|wǒ} {做|zuò} {得|de} {liǎo}

Unnecessary {的|de}.
✗

{我|wǒ} {看|kàn} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {书|shū} {吗|ma}?

✓

{你|nǐ} {看|kàn} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {本|běn} {书|shū} {吗|ma}?

Missing specific object.
✗

{我|wǒ} {解|jiě} {决|jué} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {的|de} {问|wèn} {题|tí}

✓

{我|wǒ} {解|jiě} {决|jué} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {个|gè} {问|wèn} {题|tí}

Incorrect modification structure.
✗

{这|zhè} {种|zhǒng} {情|qíng} {况|kuàng} {我|wǒ} {应|yìng} {付|fu} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {了|le}

✓

{这|zhè} {种|zhǒng} {情|qíng} {况|kuàng} {我|wǒ} {应|yìng} {付|fu} {得|de} {liǎo}

Redundant aspect marker.

Sentence Patterns

___ {得|de} {了|liǎo} ___

___ {不|bù} {了|liǎo} ___

___ {得|de} {了|liǎo} {吗|ma}?

{这|zhè} {么|me} ___ {我|wǒ} {___} {了|liǎo}。

Real World Usage

Food Delivery App very common

{这|zhè} {么|me} {大|dà} {份|fèn} {我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}。

Social Media (WeChat) constant

{这|zhè} {个|gè} {我|wǒ} {做|zuò} {得|de} {了|liǎo}！

Job Interview common

{我|wǒ} {完|wán} {成|chéng} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {项|xiàng} {任|rèn} {务|wu}。

Travel/Hiking common

{你|nǐ} {走|zǒu} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {那|nà} {么|me} {远|yuǎn} {吗|ma}？

Shopping common

{这|zhè} {个|gè} {价|jià} {格|gé} {我|wǒ} {接|jiē} {受|shòu} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}。

Texting constant

{我|wǒ} {去|qù} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} {了|le}。

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💡

Focus on the tone

Always remember the third tone for {liǎo}. It is the key to distinguishing it from the past tense {le}.
⚠️

Don't over-use

Only use this when talking about finishing or capacity. Don't use it for general permission.
🎯

Use with degrees

You can add degree words like {那|nà} {么|me} {远|yuǎn} (that far) to make your sentences more natural.
💬

Be polite

When refusing something, using {吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} is a polite way to say you are full.

Smart Tips

Use {得|de} {了|liǎo} instead of {能|néng} to sound more natural.

{我|wǒ} {能|néng} {吃|chī} {完|wán} {这|zhè} {个|gè}。 → {我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {个|gè}。

Practice saying 'liǎo' (3rd tone) separately from 'le' (neutral).

{吃|chī} {了|le} {了|le} → {吃|chī} {得|de} {liǎo}

Use {吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} to refuse food politely.

{我|wǒ} {不|bù} {吃|chī} {了|le}。 → {我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} {了|le}。

Use {走|zǒu} {得|de} {了|liǎo} for physical endurance.

{我|wǒ} {能|néng} {走|zǒu} {很|hěn} {远|yuǎn}。 → {我|wǒ} {走|zǒu} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {那|nà} {么|me} {远|yuǎn}。

Pronunciation

liǎo (3rd tone)

Tone of 'liao'

The character {了|liǎo} in this construction must be pronounced in the 3rd tone, not the neutral tone used for the aspect particle.

Question intonation

Verb + de liǎo + {吗|ma}↑

Rising pitch at the end indicates a question.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'de-liao' as 'Done-Li-All' (I'm done, I've finished it all).

Visual Association

Imagine a person trying to eat a giant mountain of rice. If they finish it, they smile and say 'de-liao'. If they stop halfway, they say 'bu-liao'.

Rhyme

If you can finish, say 'de-liao', if you can't, say 'bu-liao'.

Story

Xiao Wang went to a buffet. He saw a huge plate of dumplings. He thought, 'I can eat them all!' He said, '{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo}!' But after ten, he was full. He sighed, '{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}!'

Word Web

{吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo}{走|zǒu} {得|de} {了|liǎo}{做|zuò} {得|de} {了|liǎo}{拿|ná} {得|de} {了|liǎo}{看|kàn} {得|de} {了|liǎo}{听|tīng} {得|de} {了|liǎo}

Challenge

For the next 5 minutes, look at everything around you and say if you can or cannot finish/handle it (e.g., '{这|zhè} {本|běn} {书|shū} {我|wǒ} {看|kàn} {得|de} {了|liǎo}').

Cultural Notes

Very common in daily life, especially when discussing food portions or physical endurance.

Similar usage, but sometimes speakers might use {得|de} {了|liǎo} interchangeably with {能|néng} in casual speech.

Speakers often use this structure, but may sometimes use Cantonese-specific particles instead.

The potential complement system evolved from resultative verb compounds in Middle Chinese.

Conversation Starters

“

{你|nǐ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {么|me} {多|duō} {吗|ma}？

“

{你|nǐ} {走|zǒu} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {那|nà} {么|me} {远|yuǎn} {吗|ma}？

“

{这|zhè} {个|gè} {工|gōng} {作|zuò} {你|nǐ} {做|zuò} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {吗|ma}？

“

{这|zhè} {种|zhǒng} {压|yā} {力|lì} {你|nǐ} {承|chéng} {受|shòu} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {吗|ma}？

Journal Prompts

Write about a meal you couldn't finish.
Write about a long walk or hike you took.
Write about a difficult task you managed to complete.
Write about a time you had to handle a stressful situation.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

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Test Yourself

Fill in the blank with the correct form.

{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} ___ {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {么|me} {多|duō}。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {得|de}
Affirmative ability uses {得|de}.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which sentence is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo}
Correct structure is Verb + de + liao.
Find the mistake. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

{我|wǒ} {走|zǒu} {了|le} {了|liǎo} {那|nà} {么|me} {远|yuǎn}。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {了|le}
Remove the aspect particle {le}.
Reorder the words. Sentence Reorder

Arrange the words in the correct order:

All words placed

Click words above to build the sentence

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {个|gè}
Subject + Verb + de + liao + Object.
Translate to Chinese. Translation

I cannot finish this.

Answer starts with: {我|...

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {个|gè}
Negative ability uses {不|bù}.
Match the Chinese to English. Match Pairs

Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 1. Can finish, 2. Cannot finish
Affirmative vs Negative.
Build a sentence. Sentence Building

Use: {做|zuò}, {得|de}, {了|liǎo}, {我|wǒ}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我|wǒ} {做|zuò} {得|de} {了|liǎo}
Correct structure.
Fill in the blank.

{你|nǐ} {走|zǒu} ___ {了|liǎo} {吗|ma}?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {得|de}
Question form uses {得|de}.

Score: /8

Practice Exercises

8 exercises
Fill in the blank with the correct form.

{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} ___ {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {么|me} {多|duō}。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {得|de}
Affirmative ability uses {得|de}.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which sentence is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo}
Correct structure is Verb + de + liao.
Find the mistake. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

{我|wǒ} {走|zǒu} {了|le} {了|liǎo} {那|nà} {么|me} {远|yuǎn}。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {了|le}
Remove the aspect particle {le}.
Reorder the words. Sentence Reorder

{了|liǎo} / {得|de} / {吃|chī} / {我|wǒ} / {这|zhè} {个|gè}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {个|gè}
Subject + Verb + de + liao + Object.
Translate to Chinese. Translation

I cannot finish this.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo} {这|zhè} {个|gè}
Negative ability uses {不|bù}.
Match the Chinese to English. Match Pairs

Match: 1. {吃|chī} {得|de} {了|liǎo} 2. {吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 1. Can finish, 2. Cannot finish
Affirmative vs Negative.
Build a sentence. Sentence Building

Use: {做|zuò}, {得|de}, {了|liǎo}, {我|wǒ}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我|wǒ} {做|zuò} {得|de} {了|liǎo}
Correct structure.
Fill in the blank.

{你|nǐ} {走|zǒu} ___ {了|liǎo} {吗|ma}?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {得|de}
Question form uses {得|de}.

Score: /8

Practice Bank

5 exercises
Put the words in order Sentence Reorder

1. {去|qù} 2. {不|bù} 3. {我|wǒ} 4. {了|liǎo} 5. {明天|míngtiān}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 3-5-1-2-4
Translate into Chinese Translation

I can't stand it!

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我受不了了！
Match the Chinese with the English Match Pairs

Match the terms:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: match_all
Choose the correct connector Fill in the Blank

{这么多|zhème duō} {东西|dōngxi}，{你|nǐ} {拿|ná} ___ {了|liǎo} {吗|ma}？

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 得
Which one sounds most like a native speaker declining a gift they can't afford? Multiple Choice

I can't buy this.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我买不了。

Score: /5

FAQ (8)

No, they are different. {了|liǎo} (3rd tone) is for potential ability, while {了|le} (neutral tone) is for aspect/past tense.

Sometimes, but {得|de} {了|liǎo} is more specific to 'finishing' or 'capacity'.

Use {不|bù} instead of {得|de}. Example: '{吃|chī} {不|bù} {了|liǎo}'.

It is more common in spoken Chinese, but can appear in informal writing or dialogue in novels.

Most verbs that involve completion work, but some abstract verbs might not.

It comes from the word {了|liǎo} {解|jiě} (to understand/finish).

People will understand, but it will sound like you are talking about the past tense.

It is standard in Mandarin and widely understood in other dialects.

Scaffolded Practice

1

1

2

2

3

3

4

4

Mastery Progress

Needs Practice

Improving

Strong

Mastered

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In Other Languages

Spanish partial

Poder + infinitive

Chinese uses specific complements for different types of ability.

French partial

Pouvoir + infinitive

Chinese grammar is more specific about the result of the action.

German partial

Können

Chinese relies on resultative complements to express capacity.

Japanese partial

Dekiru

Chinese structure is verb-focused; Japanese is often noun-focused.

Arabic low

Istata'a

The complement system is a unique feature of Chinese.

Chinese (Classical) low

Neng/Ke

Modern Chinese uses resultative complements which were not present in Classical Chinese.

Learning Path

Prerequisites

Previous
Chinese 'Cannot Finish' (不了 bù liǎo)
Next
Can or Can't? Using V-得了 / V-不了 (déliǎo / bùliǎo)

Learn These First

A1 Builds On

Can or Can't? Using V-得了 / V-不了 (déliǎo / bùliǎo)

Overview In Chinese grammar, expressing whether an action can or cannot be accomplished is fundamental. While other pote...

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