A2 Modal Verbs 17 min read Easy

Chinese Modal Verb: Can & Know How To (会)

Use 会 to express learned skills like languages, sports, and technical abilities you've acquired through practice.
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Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

Use {会|huì} to express skills you have learned or things you know how to do.

  • Use {会|huì} for learned skills: {我会|wǒ huì} {做饭|zuòfàn} (I know how to cook).
  • Negative form uses {不会|bú huì}: {我不会|wǒ bú huì} {开车|kāichē} (I don't know how to drive).
  • Question form uses {会...吗|huì...ma}: {你会|nǐ huì} {说|shuō} {中文|zhōngwén} {吗|ma}? (Can you speak Chinese?)
Subject + 会 + Verb + (Object)

Overview

The Chinese modal verb 会 (huì) is fundamental for expressing acquired abilities or learned skills. Unlike the English "can," which covers a broad range of meanings including permission, physical ability, and possibility, 会 specifically denotes a competency gained through study, practice, or experience. When you state that you 会 do something, you are communicating that you possess the know-how to perform that action, implying a learning process has occurred.

This distinction is crucial in Chinese grammar, as other modal verbs like 能 (néng) and 可以 (kěyǐ) address different facets of ability or possibility.

While its primary role at the A2 CEFR level is to express learned skills, 会 also functions to indicate likelihood or future occurrences. For instance, 明天会下雨 (míngtiān huì xiàyǔ) means "It will rain tomorrow," signifying a probable future event. This dual function underscores its versatility, but for learners at this stage, mastering its use for acquired skills is paramount.

Understanding 会 allows you to articulate personal competencies, discuss professional qualifications, and engage in everyday conversations about what people are capable of doing due to their training or knowledge. It is one of the most frequently used modal verbs in daily communication.

How This Grammar Works

会 operates as a mental modal verb, indicating an internal state of possessing a skill or knowledge. It signifies that an individual has successfully undergone a learning process, allowing them to perform an action. For example, if you say 我会游泳 (wǒ huì yóuyǒng), you are conveying that you have learned how to swim.
This differs significantly from simply stating a present physical action like 我游泳 (wǒ yóuyǒng), which means "I swim," without reference to acquired skill. The presence of 会 explicitly adds the layer of learned capability.
In sentence structure, 会 functions as an auxiliary verb, always preceding the main verb or verb phrase. It does not inflect for person, number, or tense, making its application straightforward once its core meaning is grasped. Regardless of the subject—我 (wǒ, I), 你 (nǐ, you), 他们 (tāmen, they)—会 remains unchanged.
This invariance simplifies sentence construction, allowing learners to focus on the semantic implications. Consider the difference between 他做饭 (tā zuòfàn, He cooks) and 他会做饭 (tā huì zuòfàn, He can cook). The latter implies he possesses the skill of cooking, possibly having learned recipes or techniques.
The linguistic principle here highlights Chinese's emphasis on distinguishing between innate conditions, external permissions, and internally acquired capabilities.
Using 会 correctly demonstrates an understanding of this nuanced approach to expressing ability. It suggests a journey from not knowing to knowing, a transition through education or practice. This linguistic specificity avoids the ambiguity of a single word like "can" in English.
For instance, in Chinese, you would never use 会 to express physical capability (e.g., "I can lift this box") or permission (e.g., "You can go now"), as these require 能 and 可以, respectively. Mastering 会 therefore unlocks a more precise and idiomatic expression of human capabilities in Chinese.

Formation Pattern

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Constructing sentences with 会 follows predictable and consistent patterns, making it accessible even for beginners. The basic structure involves placing 会 directly before the verb or verb phrase it modifies. This fixed word order is a hallmark of Chinese syntax, emphasizing clarity and avoiding complex conjugations found in many other languages.
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1. Positive Statements:
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To affirm that someone possesses a learned skill or knowledge, use the pattern: Subject + 会 + Verb + (Object).
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我会说中文。 (Wǒ huì shuō Zhōngwén.) - I can speak Chinese. (Implies I learned it.)
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她会弹钢琴。 (Tā huì tán gāngqín.) - She can play the piano. (Indicates she acquired this skill.)
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我们都会用这个软件。 (Wǒmen dōu huì yòng zhège ruǎnjiàn.) - We all know how to use this software. (Emphasizes collective learned ability.)
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2. Negative Statements:
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To deny the possession of a learned skill or knowledge, insert 不 (bù) before 会. Due to tone sandhi, 不 (bù, 4th tone) changes to bú (2nd tone) when followed by another 4th tone character, such as 会 (huì, 4th tone). Thus, 不会 is pronounced bú huì.
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Subject + 不会 (bú huì) + Verb + (Object).
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我不会开车。 (Wǒ bú huì kāichē.) - I can't drive. (Meaning I haven't learned how to.)
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他不会游泳。 (Tā bú huì yóuyǒng.) - He can't swim. (Indicates he lacks the learned skill.)
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他们都不会说日语。 (Tāmen dōu bú huì shuō Rìyǔ.) - They all cannot speak Japanese. (States their lack of Japanese language skill.)
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3. Yes/No Questions (Option A: Using 吗):
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The most common way to form a simple yes/no question is by adding the question particle 吗 (ma) at the end of a positive statement.
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Subject + 会 + Verb + (Object) + 吗?
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你会做饭吗？ (Nǐ huì zuòfàn ma?) - Can you cook?
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她会打篮球吗？ (Tā huì dǎ lánqiú ma?) - Can she play basketball?
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你们会写汉字吗？ (Nǐmen huì xiě Hànzì ma?) - Can you write Chinese characters?
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4. Yes/No Questions (Option B: A-not-A Pattern):
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This pattern, common in spoken Chinese, presents both the affirmative and negative forms of the verb, often conveying a slightly more direct or informal tone. For 会, it becomes 会不会 (huì bú huì).
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Subject + 会不会 + Verb + (Object)?
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你会不会做饭？ (Nǐ huì bú huì zuòfàn?) - Can you cook (or not)?
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他会不会修电脑？ (Tā huì bú huì xiū diànnǎo?) - Does he know how to fix computers?
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你朋友会不会弹吉他？ (Nǐ péngyǒu huì bú huì tán jítā?) - Can your friend play the guitar?
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Here is a summary table for these formation patterns:
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| Type | Pattern | Example (Chinese) | Example (Pinyin) | Example (English) |
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| :--------------- | :---------------------------------- | :----------------------------- | :----------------------------------- | :-------------------------- |
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| Positive | S + 会 + V + (O) | 我会说中文。 | Wǒ huì shuō Zhōngwén. | I can speak Chinese. |
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| Negative | S + 不会 + V + (O) | 他不会开车。 | Tā bú huì kāichē. | He cannot drive. |
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| Question (吗) | S + 会 + V + (O) + 吗? | 你会游泳吗？ | Nǐ huì yóuyǒng ma? | Can you swim? |
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| Question (A-not-A)| S + 会不会 + V + (O)? | 你会不会写代码？ | Nǐ huì bú huì xiě dàimǎ? | Do you know how to code? |

When To Use It

会 is primarily used to express a diverse range of acquired abilities, skills, and knowledge. Its usage clearly distinguishes between innate capabilities and those developed through learning, practice, or training. Understanding these contexts is key to deploying 会 accurately and idiomatically.
1. Languages: This is one of the most common applications of 会. Any language you have studied and can communicate in falls under this category.
  • 我会说英语和一点点法语。 (Wǒ huì shuō Yīngyǔ hé yī diǎndiǎn Fǎyǔ.) - I can speak English and a little French.
  • 她会读写汉字。 (Tā huì dúxiě Hànzì.) - She can read and write Chinese characters.
  • 你学了中文多久？现在会说吗？ (Nǐ xué le Zhōngwén duōjiǔ? Xiànzài huì shuō ma?) - How long have you studied Chinese? Can you speak it now?
2. Practical Skills & Hobbies: This encompasses a wide array of activities that require learning specific techniques or procedures.
  • Sports/Physical Activities: 我不会打乒乓球。 (Wǒ bú huì dǎ pīngpāngqiú.) - I can't play table tennis. (Implies never learned.)
  • Driving/Operating Machinery: 我去年考了驾照，现在会开车了。 (Wǒ qùnián kǎo le jiàzhào, xiànzài huì kāichē le.) - I got my driver's license last year, now I can drive.
  • Cooking/Baking: 她会做很多中国菜。 (Tā huì zuò hěn duō Zhōngguó cài.) - She can cook many Chinese dishes.
3. Intellectual & Artistic Skills: Skills developed through mental effort, education, or artistic practice.
  • Musical Instruments: 他会弹吉他，还会唱歌。 (Tā huì tán jítā, hái huì chànggē.) - He can play guitar and also sing.
  • Programming/Software Usage: 你会不会用Photoshop？ (Nǐ huì bú huì yòng Photoshop?) - Do you know how to use Photoshop?
  • Artistic Creation: 我哥哥会画画和雕塑。 (Wǒ gēge huì huàhuà hé diāosù.) - My elder brother can paint and sculpt.
4. Professional & Technical Abilities: Competencies required in a professional setting, often gained through formal training or work experience.
  • 新来的同事会写代码，也会做数据分析。 (Xīn lái de tóngshì huì xiě dàimǎ, yě huì zuò shùjù fēnxī.) - The new colleague can code and also do data analysis.
  • 你会操作这台机器吗？ (Nǐ huì cāozuò zhè tái jīqì ma?) - Do you know how to operate this machine?
5. Likelihood or Future Events (Secondary Meaning):
Beyond learned skills, 会 also expresses likelihood or prediction regarding future events. This usage implies that an event is expected to occur based on current circumstances, inherent properties, or general knowledge. While this meaning becomes more prominent at higher CEFR levels, A2 learners will encounter it.
  • 明天会下雨。 (Míngtiān huì xiàyǔ.) - It will rain tomorrow. (A prediction based on weather patterns.)
  • 他一定会成功。 (Tā yīdìng huì chénggōng.) - He will definitely succeed. (A prediction based on his capabilities or efforts.)
  • 小心！你会摔倒的。 (Xiǎoxīn! Nǐ huì shuāidǎo de.) - Be careful! You will fall down. (A warning predicting an outcome.)
In this context, 会 functions similarly to "will" or "is likely to" in English. The differentiation from the "skill" meaning often comes from context, especially the type of verb that follows 会. When followed by non-skill-based verbs or events, it typically indicates likelihood.
Cultural Insight: In Chinese culture, humility is often valued. Even if you are highly skilled, it's common to respond with 会一点点 (huì yī diǎndiǎn, just a little bit) or 马马虎虎 (mǎmǎhūhū, passable) when asked about your abilities, rather than an outright boast, even if you are proficient. This is a common social grace.

Common Mistakes

Learners often encounter difficulties with 会 due to the broad semantic range of the English verb "can." Chinese, however, employs distinct modal verbs for different types of ability or possibility, leading to common errors when directly translating from English. Understanding the specific nuances of 会 and its counterparts is crucial for accurate expression.
1. Confusing 会 with 能 (néng):
This is perhaps the most frequent mistake. While both can translate to "can," their underlying meanings are distinct.
  • 会 (huì): Acquired Skill/Knowledge. Implies learning or practice. It's about knowing how to do something.
  • Correct: 我会说中文。 (Wǒ huì shuō Zhōngwén.) - I can speak Chinese. (I learned it.)
  • Incorrect: 我能说中文。 (Wǒ néng shuō Zhōngwén.) - While grammatically possible, it emphasizes the capacity to speak Chinese, perhaps in a specific situation, rather than the learned skill itself. It might be used if one was temporarily unable to speak but now can.
  • 能 (néng): Physical/Circumstantial Ability; Possibility. Refers to physical capability, availability of resources (time, money), or objective conditions that make an action possible.
  • Correct: 我今天不能来，我生病了。 (Wǒ jīntiān bù néng lái, wǒ shēngbìng le.) - I can't come today, I'm sick. (Circumstantial inability.)
  • Correct: 我能举起那个箱子。 (Wǒ néng jǔqǐ nàge xiāngzi.) - I can lift that box. (Physical ability.)
  • Incorrect: 我不会举起那个箱子。 (Wǒ bú huì jǔqǐ nàge xiāngzi.) - This would imply you don't know how to lift a box, which is usually not the intended meaning for a simple physical action.
2. Confusing 会 with 可以 (kěyǐ):
Another common source of confusion, 可以 deals with permission and feasibility.
  • 会 (huì): Acquired Skill/Knowledge.
  • Correct: 你会做饭吗？ (Nǐ huì zuòfàn ma?) - Can you cook? (Do you know how to cook?)
  • Incorrect: 你可以做饭吗？ (Nǐ kěyǐ zuòfàn ma?) - This asks for permission to cook or if it's feasible for you to cook (e.g., "Are you allowed to cook?" or "Is it possible for you to cook given the ingredients?"), not about the skill itself.
  • 可以 (kěyǐ): Permission; Feasibility; Suggestion. Indicates that an action is allowed, possible due to external conditions, or recommended.
  • Correct: 我可以坐这里吗？ (Wǒ kěyǐ zuò zhèlǐ ma?) - Can I sit here? (Asking for permission.)
  • Correct: 你可以试试这个方法。 (Nǐ kěyǐ shìshì zhège fāngfǎ.) - You can try this method. (Suggestion.)
  • Incorrect: 我会坐这里吗？ (Wǒ huì zuò zhèlǐ ma?) - This would mean "Do I know how to sit here?" which is nonsensical.
Here is a comprehensive comparison of the "Can Triad":
| Aspect | 会 (huì) | 能 (néng) | 可以 (kěyǐ) |
| :------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------- | :----------------------------------------------- |
| Core Meaning | Acquired skill/knowledge; likelihood | Physical/circumstantial ability; possibility | Permission; feasibility; suggestion |
| Focus | "Know-how" through learning/practice | Capacity (physical, time, resources) | Authorization or objective conditions |
| Example 1 | 她会说中文。 (She knows how to speak Chinese.) | 她今天能来。 (She can come today - circumstance.) | 我今天可以来。 (I can come today - permission/feasibility.) |
| Example 2 | 我会游泳。 (I know how to swim.) | 我能游五公里。 (I can swim 5 km - physical capacity.) | 你可以走了。 (You can leave - permission.) |
| Negative | 不会 (bú huì) - doesn't know how; won't | 不能 (bù néng) - unable; cannot | 不可以 (bù kěyǐ) - not allowed; not feasible |
3. Using 会 for Innate Abilities or Senses:
Actions that are naturally occurring or part of basic human physiology do not require 会. For instance, you don't learn how to see or hear.
  • Incorrect: 我会看见。 (Wǒ huì kànjiàn.) - "I can see" (implies learning to see).
  • Correct: 我看见了。 (Wǒ kànjiàn le.) - I saw/I can see. (Simple statement of perception.)
  • Incorrect: 我会听见。 (Wǒ huì tīngjiàn.) - "I can hear" (implies learning to hear).
  • Correct: 我听见了。 (Wǒ tīngjiàn le.) - I heard/I can hear. (Simple statement of perception.)
4. Incorrect Placement of 会:
会 is a modal verb and must precede the main verb or verb phrase.
  • Incorrect: 我中文会说。 (Wǒ Zhōngwén huì shuō.) - The modal verb is misplaced.
  • Correct: 我会说中文。 (Wǒ huì shuō Zhōngwén.) - The correct word order.
5. Overgeneralizing from English "can":
The most fundamental mistake is assuming a one-to-one translation from English. Chinese demands specificity. Always consider the type of "can" you intend to express: is it an acquired skill, a physical/circumstantial ability, or permission?
By carefully distinguishing these contexts and understanding the specific function of 会, 能, and 可以, you can significantly improve the accuracy and naturalness of your Chinese.

Real Conversations

会 is a cornerstone of daily Chinese communication, appearing in myriad contexts from casual chats about hobbies to formal discussions about qualifications. Observing its use in natural dialogue helps solidify your understanding beyond grammatical rules.

1. Discussing Hobbies and Skills:

- A: 你周末喜欢做什么？你会弹吉他吗？ (Nǐ zhōumò xǐhuān zuò shénme? Nǐ huì tán jítā ma?)

(What do you like to do on weekends? Can you play the guitar?)

- B: 嗯，我会一点点。我从大学开始学的。你呢？你会打网球吗？ (En, wǒ huì yī diǎndiǎn. Wǒ cóng dàxué kāishǐ xué de. Nǐ ne? Nǐ huì dǎ wǎngqiú ma?)

(Hmm, I can a little bit. I started learning in university. How about you? Can you play tennis?)

- A: 我不会，但我很想学！ (Wǒ bú huì, dàn wǒ hěn xiǎng xué!)

(I can't, but I really want to learn!)

In this exchange, B's 会一点点 (a little bit) demonstrates cultural humility, a common practice even if one is proficient. A's 我不会 directly states the lack of learned skill.

2. Asking for Help or Expertise:

- A: 我的电脑出问题了，你懂电脑吗？你会修吗？ (Wǒ de diànnǎo chū wèntí le, nǐ dǒng diànnǎo ma? Nǐ huì xiū ma?)

(My computer has a problem, do you understand computers? Can you fix it?)

- B: 嗯，我以前学过一点。你告诉我什么问题，我看看我会不会。 (En, wǒ yǐqián xuéguo yī diǎn. Nǐ gàosù wǒ shénme wèntí, wǒ kànkan wǒ huì bú huì.)

(Well, I learned a bit before. Tell me what the problem is, I'll see if I know how to [fix it].)

Here, 你会修吗？ is a direct inquiry into B's technical repair skills, and 我看看我会不会 is a tentative affirmation of potential know-how.

3. Expressing Future Likelihood (A2 Introduction):

- A: 天气预报说明天会下雨，你还去爬山吗？ (Tiānqì yùbào shuō míngtiān huì xiàyǔ, nǐ hái qù páshān ma?)

(The weather forecast says it will rain tomorrow, are you still going hiking?)

- B: 下雨？那我们可能就不能去了。 (Xiàyǔ? Nà wǒmen kěnéng jiù bù néng qù le.)

(Rain? Then we probably can't go.)

This dialogue showcases 会 in its predictive role for 会下雨 (it will rain), indicating a likely future event. Note B's use of 不能 (néng), indicating a circumstantial inability to go hiking due to the rain.

4. Implied Verbs in Casual Conversation/Texting:

In informal settings, especially texting or rapid-fire conversation, the verb modified by 会 can sometimes be omitted if clear from context.

- A: 你会中文吗？ (Nǐ huì Zhōngwén ma?) - Do you know Chinese? (Here, 说 (shuō, speak) is implied).

- B: 会！ (Huì!) - Yes! (Implies 我会说中文.)

This streamlined usage is common among native speakers and demonstrates a natural fluidity that comes with proficiency. While it is acceptable in casual speech, it is generally advised for learners to include the verb until they are confident in conversational nuances.

Quick FAQ

This section addresses common specific questions that learners often have about 会, clarifying nuanced meanings and providing practical usage tips.
Q: Can 会 mean "will" or "be going to" for future events?

Yes, absolutely. While your primary focus at A2 is on 会 signifying acquired skills, it is also frequently used to express likelihood, prediction, or future occurrences. This meaning is distinct from the "skill" meaning and is typically identified by the context, particularly the type of verb that follows 会.

  • Prediction based on general knowledge/circumstances: 明天会下雨。 (Míngtiān huì xiàyǔ.) - It will rain tomorrow.
  • Inherent tendency: 这棵树会开花。 (Zhè kē shù huì kāihuā.) - This tree will (eventually) bloom.
  • Warning/prediction of outcome: 再不走你就会迟到。 (Zài bù zǒu nǐ jiù huì chídào.) - If you don't leave now, you will be late.
When 会 indicates a future event, it often implies a degree of certainty or expectation. It is important to distinguish this from expressing intention (which might use 要 (yào)) or immediate plans.
Q: Is there a polite or humble way to respond if someone asks about my skills?

Yes, definitely. In Chinese culture, it's common to express humility even if you are quite skilled. Instead of a direct 我会 (Wǒ huì, I can), you might say:

  • 会一点点。 (Huì yī diǎndiǎn.) - Just a little bit. (A very common and polite response, implying a modest level of skill.)
  • 马马虎虎。 (Mǎmǎhūhū.) - So-so; passable. (Also a humble response, suggesting your skill isn't exceptional.)
These phrases convey respect and can make interactions more harmonious. Use them when you want to avoid appearing boastful, especially in initial encounters or with elders/superiors.
Q: Can 会 be used with just a noun, omitting the verb?

Yes, in casual speech and especially in texting, the verb is often implied if it's clear from the context. The most common instance is with languages.

  • Full form: 你会说中文吗？ (Nǐ huì shuō Zhōngwén ma?) - Can you speak Chinese?
  • Shortened form: 你会中文吗？ (Nǐ huì Zhōngwén ma?) - Do you know Chinese? (The verb 说 (shuō, speak) is implied.)
  • Another example: 他会乐器。 (Tā huì yuèqì.) - He can play instruments. (The verb 玩 (wán, play) or 弹 (tán, play stringed instruments) is implied.)
While this is natural for native speakers, for learners, it is generally safer to include the verb until you develop a strong intuitive sense of when omission is appropriate.
Q: How do I express that I used to know how to do something but now I don't?

To convey a past skill that has been lost or is no longer possessed, you can combine 会 with 以前 (yǐqián, formerly/before) or simply state the current inability.

  • 我以前会弹钢琴，但是现在不会了。 (Wǒ yǐqián huì tán gāngqín, dànshì xiànzài bú huì le.) - I used to know how to play the piano, but now I don't anymore.
  • 这个软件我以前会用，现在忘记了。 (Zhège ruǎnjiàn wǒ yǐqián huì yòng, xiànzài wàngjì le.) - I used to know how to use this software, but now I've forgotten.
  • 我不会了。 (Wǒ bú huì le.) - I don't know how anymore. (Simple and direct, often implying a previous ability.)
The particle 了 (le) at the end of 不会了 can indicate a change of state, reinforcing the idea that the skill was once present but is no longer. This provides a clear way to articulate a lost or forgotten ability.

Formation of {会|huì}

Form Structure Example
Affirmative
Subj + 会 + Verb
{我会|wǒ huì} {游泳|yóuyǒng}
Negative
Subj + 不会 + Verb
{我不会|wǒ bú huì} {游泳|yóuyǒng}
Question
Subj + 会 + Verb + 吗
{你会|nǐ huì} {游泳|yóuyǒng} {吗|ma}?
Future (Aff)
Subj + 会 + Verb
{明天|míngtiān} {会|huì} {下雨|xiàyǔ}
Future (Neg)
Subj + 不会 + Verb
{明天|míngtiān} {不会|bú huì} {下雨|xiàyǔ}
Past (Ability)
Subj + 会 + Verb
{我|wǒ} {以前|yǐqián} {会|huì} {弹琴|tánqín}

Meanings

The modal verb {会|huì} indicates that someone has the ability to do something because they have learned it or possess the necessary skill.

1

Learned Skill

Ability acquired through study or practice.

“{我会|wǒ huì} {写|xiě} {汉字|hànzì}.”

“{他会|tā huì} {弹钢琴|tán gāngqín}.”

2

Future Possibility

Something that is likely to happen.

“{明天|míngtiān} {会|huì} {下雨|xiàyǔ}.”

“{他|tā} {会|huì} {来|lái} {吗|ma}?”

Reference Table

Reference table for Chinese Modal Verb: Can & Know How To (会)
Form Structure Example
Affirmative
Subj + 会 + Verb
{我会|wǒ huì} {做饭|zuòfàn}
Negative
Subj + 不会 + Verb
{我不会|wǒ bú huì} {做饭|zuòfàn}
Question
Subj + 会 + Verb + 吗
{你会|nǐ huì} {做饭|zuòfàn} {吗|ma}?
Future
Subj + 会 + Verb
{他|tā} {会|huì} {来|lái}
Negative Future
Subj + 不会 + Verb
{他|tā} {不会|bú huì} {来|lái}
Ability (Past)
Subj + 会 + Verb
{我|wǒ} {会|huì} {说|shuō} {英语|yīngyǔ}

Formality Spectrum

Formal
{您|nín} {会|huì} {说|shuō} {中文|zhōngwén} {吗|ma}?

{您|nín} {会|huì} {说|shuō} {中文|zhōngwén} {吗|ma}? (Meeting someone)

Neutral
{你会|nǐ huì} {说|shuō} {中文|zhōngwén} {吗|ma}?

{你会|nǐ huì} {说|shuō} {中文|zhōngwén} {吗|ma}? (Meeting someone)

Informal
{你会|nǐ huì} {说|shuō} {中文|zhōngwén} {吗|ma}?

{你会|nǐ huì} {说|shuō} {中文|zhōngwén} {吗|ma}? (Meeting someone)

Slang
{会|huì} {说|shuō} {中文|zhōngwén} {吗|ma}?

{会|huì} {说|shuō} {中文|zhōngwén} {吗|ma}? (Meeting someone)

The Two Faces of {会|huì}

会

Learned Skill

  • 游泳 swim
  • 做饭 cook

Future Prediction

  • 下雨 rain
  • 来 come
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Examples by Level

1

{我会|wǒ huì} {说|shuō} {汉语|hànyǔ}.

I can speak Chinese.

2

{你会|nǐ huì} {做饭|zuòfàn} {吗|ma}?

Can you cook?

3

{他|tā} {不会|bú huì} {开车|kāichē}.

He doesn't know how to drive.

4

{我|wǒ} {会|huì} {写|xiě} {汉字|hànzì}.

I know how to write characters.

1

{明天|míngtiān} {会|huì} {下雨|xiàyǔ}.

It will rain tomorrow.

2

{你|nǐ} {会|huì} {用|yòng} {电脑|diànnǎo} {吗|ma}?

Do you know how to use a computer?

3

{她|tā} {会|huì} {弹|tán} {吉他|jítā}.

She knows how to play the guitar.

4

{我们|wǒmen} {不会|bú huì} {说|shuō} {法语|fǎyǔ}.

We don't know how to speak French.

1

{这|zhè} {个|gè} {问题|wèntí} {会|huì} {很|hěn} {复杂|fùzá}.

This problem will be very complex.

2

{他|tā} {会|huì} {修|xiū} {电脑|diànnǎo}, {真|zhēn} {厉害|lìhai}!

He knows how to fix computers, that's impressive!

3

{你|nǐ} {会|huì} {游泳|yóuyǒng} {吗|ma}? {我|wǒ} {可以|kěyǐ} {教|jiāo} {你|nǐ}.

Can you swim? I can teach you.

4

{这|zhè} {种|zhǒng} {情况|qíngkuàng} {会|huì} {发生|fāshēng}.

This situation will happen.

1

{他|tā} {会|huì} {这么|zhème} {说|shuō}, {一定|yīdìng} {有|yǒu} {他|tā} {的|de} {理由|lǐyóu}.

He would say that, he must have his reasons.

2

{如果|rúguǒ} {你|nǐ} {不|bù} {练习|liànxí}, {就|jiù} {不会|bú huì} {进步|jìnbù}.

If you don't practice, you won't improve.

3

{这|zhè} {个|gè} {计划|jìhuà} {会|huì} {成功|chénggōng} {吗|ma}?

Will this plan succeed?

4

{她|tā} {会|huì} {说|shuō} {流利|liúlì} {的|de} {英语|yīngyǔ}.

She can speak fluent English.

1

{他|tā} {这|zhè} {人|rén} {就|jiù} {会|huì} {开|kāi} {玩笑|wánxiào}.

That's just how he is; he likes to joke.

2

{这|zhè} {种|zhǒng} {事|shì} {会|huì} {发生|fāshēng} {是|shì} {必然|bìrán} {的|de}.

It is inevitable that this will happen.

3

{你|nǐ} {会|huì} {这么|zhème} {想|xiǎng} {也|yě} {不|bù} {奇怪|qíguài}.

It's not surprising that you would think that.

4

{他|tā} {会|huì} {写|xiě} {一手|yīshǒu} {好|hǎo} {字|zì}.

He knows how to write beautiful calligraphy.

1

{他|tā} {这|zhè} {人|rén} {就|jiù} {会|huì} {钻牛角尖|zuānniújiǎojiān}.

He is the type of person who gets stuck on minor details.

2

{这|zhè} {种|zhǒng} {天气|tiānqì} {会|huì} {持续|chíxù} {多久|duōjiǔ}?

How long will this weather persist?

3

{他|tā} {会|huì} {不|bù} {来|lái} {吗|ma}? {这|zhè} {不|bù} {像|xiàng} {他|tā} {的|de} {风格|fēnggé}.

Would he not come? That's not his style.

4

{这|zhè} {会|huì} {是|shì} {一个|yīgè} {转折点|zhuǎnzhédiǎn}.

This will be a turning point.

Easily Confused

Chinese Modal Verb: Can & Know How To (会) vs {会|huì} vs {能|néng}

Both mean 'can'.

Chinese Modal Verb: Can & Know How To (会) vs {会|huì} vs {可以|kěyǐ}

Both used for possibility.

Chinese Modal Verb: Can & Know How To (会) vs {会|huì} vs {学会|xuéhuì}

Both relate to learning.

Common Mistakes

✗

{我会|wǒ huì} {去|qù} {学校|xuéxiào}.

✓

{我|wǒ} {能|néng} {去|qù} {学校|xuéxiào}.

Going to school is not a learned skill.
✗

{我会|wǒ huì} {英语|yīngyǔ}.

✓

{我会|wǒ huì} {说|shuō} {英语|yīngyǔ}.

Need a verb after {会|huì}.
✗

{我|wǒ} {会|huì} {游泳|yóuyǒng} {吗|ma}?

✓

{我会|wǒ huì} {游泳|yóuyǒng}.

Don't add {吗|ma} to a statement.
✗

{我|wǒ} {会|huì} {不|bù} {游泳|yóuyǒng}.

✓

{我不会|wǒ bú huì} {游泳|yóuyǒng}.

Negative is {不会|bú huì}.
✗

{明天|míngtiān} {能|néng} {下雨|xiàyǔ}.

✓

{明天|míngtiān} {会|huì} {下雨|xiàyǔ}.

Use {会|huì} for future probability.
✗

{你|nǐ} {会|huì} {去|qù} {吗|ma}?

✓

{你|nǐ} {能|néng} {去|qù} {吗|ma}?

Asking about ability to go, not skill.
✗

{我|wǒ} {会|huì} {看|kàn} {见|jiàn} {你|nǐ}.

✓

{我|wǒ} {能|néng} {看|kàn} {见|jiàn} {你|nǐ}.

Seeing is physical, not a skill.
✗

{我|wǒ} {会|huì} {去|qù} {洗手间|xǐshǒujiān} {吗|ma}?

✓

{我|wǒ} {可以|kěyǐ} {去|qù} {洗手间|xǐshǒujiān} {吗|ma}?

Asking for permission.
✗

{他|tā} {会|huì} {跑|pǎo} {很|hěn} {快|kuài}.

✓

{他|tā} {能|néng} {跑|pǎo} {很|hěn} {快|kuài}.

Physical ability.
✗

{这|zhè} {会|huì} {是|shì} {对|duì} {的|de} {吗|ma}?

✓

{这|zhè} {可能|kěnéng} {是|shì} {对|duì} {的|de} {吗|ma}?

Probability vs possibility.
✗

{我|wǒ} {会|huì} {吃|chī} {辣|là}.

✓

{我|wǒ} {能|néng} {吃|chī} {辣|là}.

Tolerance is physical.
✗

{你|nǐ} {会|huì} {帮|bāng} {我|wǒ} {吗|ma}?

✓

{你|nǐ} {能|néng} {帮|bāng} {我|wǒ} {吗|ma}?

Request for help.
✗

{他|tā} {会|huì} {在|zài} {家|jiā}.

✓

{他|tā} {可能|kěnéng} {在|zài} {家|jiā}.

Speculation about location.

Sentence Patterns

{我会|wǒ huì} ___.

{我不会|wǒ bú huì} ___.

{明天|míngtiān} {会|huì} ___.

{你会|nǐ huì} ___ {吗|ma}?

Real World Usage

Job Interview very common

{我|wǒ} {会|huì} {用|yòng} {Python|Python}.

Social Media common

{我|wǒ} {会|huì} {做|zuò} {蛋糕|dàngāo}!

Texting constant

{你|nǐ} {会|huì} {来|lái} {吗|ma}?

Travel common

{你|nǐ} {会|huì} {说|shuō} {英语|yīngyǔ} {吗|ma}?

Food Delivery occasional

{这|zhè} {会|huì} {很|hěn} {快|kuài} {到|dào}.

Classroom very common

{我|wǒ} {会|huì} {写|xiě} {这个|zhège} {字|zì}.

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💡

The 'Learned' Test

Ask yourself: 'Did I learn this?' If yes, use {会|huì}.
⚠️

No Verb, No {会|huì}

Always follow {会|huì} with a verb.
🎯

Future Prediction

Use {会|huì} for things you are sure will happen.
💬

Modesty

Sometimes people say {我不会|wǒ bú huì} even if they can, to be humble.

Smart Tips

Always add the verb after {会|huì}.

{我会|wǒ huì} {中文|zhōngwén}. → {我会|wǒ huì} {说|shuō} {中文|zhōngwén}.

Use {会|huì} for high probability.

{明天|míngtiān} {下雨|xiàyǔ}. → {明天|míngtiān} {会|huì} {下雨|xiàyǔ}.

Don't use {会|huì}; use {可以|kěyǐ}.

{我|wǒ} {会|huì} {去|qù} {吗|ma}? → {我|wǒ} {可以|kěyǐ} {去|qù} {吗|ma}?

Use {能|néng} instead of {会|huì}.

{我|wǒ} {会|huì} {跑|pǎo} {很|hěn} {快|kuài}. → {我|wǒ} {能|néng} {跑|pǎo} {很|hěn} {快|kuài}.

Pronunciation

huì (like 'way' but falling)

Tone

The word {会|huì} is in the 4th tone (falling).

Question

{你会|nǐ huì} {做饭|zuòfàn} {吗|ma}↑

Rising intonation at the end for questions.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of {会|huì} as 'Hui' (Who-ee) — 'Who can do it? I can!'

Visual Association

Imagine a person with a lightbulb over their head (learning) and a calendar (future).

Rhyme

For skills you learned, use {会|huì}, it's the word you need today!

Story

Xiao Ming wanted to learn to cook. He practiced every day. Now, he says '{我会|wǒ huì} {做饭|zuòfàn}'. He also knows it will rain, so he says '{明天|míngtiān} {会|huì} {下雨|xiàyǔ}'.

Word Web

{会|huì}{不会|bú huì}{学会|xuéhuì}{开会|kāihuì}{机会|jīhuì}{社会|shèhuì}

Challenge

Write 3 things you know how to do using '{我会|wǒ huì}...' and 3 things you don't know how to do using '{我不会|wǒ bú huì}...'.

Cultural Notes

Used frequently in professional contexts to list skills.

Similar usage, but often combined with {可以|kěyǐ} for polite requests.

Often use {识|shí} instead of {会|huì} for learned skills.

Originally meant 'to meet' or 'to assemble'.

Conversation Starters

“

{你会|nǐ huì} {做|zuò} {什么|shénme} {菜|cài}?

“

{你|nǐ} {会|huì} {说|shuō} {几|jǐ} {种|zhǒng} {语言|yǔyán}?

“

{你|nǐ} {觉得|juéde} {明天|míngtiān} {会|huì} {下雨|xiàyǔ} {吗|ma}?

“

{你|nǐ} {会|huì} {弹|tán} {什么|shénme} {乐器|yuèqì} {吗|ma}?

Journal Prompts

List 3 things you know how to do.
Describe 3 things you hope to learn.
Predict the weather for the weekend.
Write about a skill you have that is useful at work.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

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Test Yourself

Fill in the blank.

{我|wǒ} ___ {说|shuō} {中文|zhōngwén}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {会|huì}
Speaking a language is a learned skill.
Correct the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

{我会|wǒ huì} {去|qù} {公园|gōngyuán}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我能|wǒ néng} {去|qù} {公园|gōngyuán}
Going to the park is not a skill.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {明天|míngtiān} {会|huì} {下雨|xiàyǔ}
Use {会|huì} for future weather.
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: {你会|nǐ huì} {做饭|zuòfàn} {吗|ma}?
Subject + {会|huì} + Verb + {吗|ma}.
Translate to Chinese. Translation

I don't know how to drive.

Answer starts with: {我不...

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我不会|wǒ bú huì} {开车|kāichē}
Driving is a skill.
Match the meaning. Match Pairs

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

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Skill
Primary use is skill.
Change to negative. Conjugation Drill

{他|tā} {会|huì} {弹钢琴|tán gāngqín}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {他不会|tā bú huì} {弹钢琴|tán gāngqín}
Negative is {不会|bú huì}.
Build a sentence. Sentence Building

Use {会|huì} and {游泳|yóuyǒng}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我会|wǒ huì} {游泳|yóuyǒng}
Subject + {会|huì} + Verb.

Score: /8

Practice Exercises

8 exercises
Fill in the blank.

{我|wǒ} ___ {说|shuō} {中文|zhōngwén}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {会|huì}
Speaking a language is a learned skill.
Correct the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

{我会|wǒ huì} {去|qù} {公园|gōngyuán}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我能|wǒ néng} {去|qù} {公园|gōngyuán}
Going to the park is not a skill.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {明天|míngtiān} {会|huì} {下雨|xiàyǔ}
Use {会|huì} for future weather.
Reorder the words. Sentence Reorder

{吗|ma} / {会|huì} / {你|nǐ} / {做饭|zuòfàn}?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {你会|nǐ huì} {做饭|zuòfàn} {吗|ma}?
Subject + {会|huì} + Verb + {吗|ma}.
Translate to Chinese. Translation

I don't know how to drive.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我不会|wǒ bú huì} {开车|kāichē}
Driving is a skill.
Match the meaning. Match Pairs

Match {会|huì} with its use.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Skill
Primary use is skill.
Change to negative. Conjugation Drill

{他|tā} {会|huì} {弹钢琴|tán gāngqín}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {他不会|tā bú huì} {弹钢琴|tán gāngqín}
Negative is {不会|bú huì}.
Build a sentence. Sentence Building

Use {会|huì} and {游泳|yóuyǒng}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我会|wǒ huì} {游泳|yóuyǒng}
Subject + {会|huì} + Verb.

Score: /8

Practice Bank

10 exercises
Put the words in the correct order. Sentence Reorder

会 | 弟弟 | 不 | 游泳 (huì | dìdi | bù | yóuyǒng)

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 弟弟不会游泳
Translate 'She can cook' into Chinese. Translation

She can cook.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 她会做饭
Select the best response to '你会打网球吗？' Multiple Choice

Response to: 'Can you play tennis?'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我会一点儿。
Fill in the blank. Fill in the Blank

我的朋友 ___ 写代码。(Wǒ de péngyǒu ___ xiě dàimǎ.)

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 会
Fix the sentence: '我开车会。' Error Correction

我开车会。(Wǒ kāichē huì.)

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我会开车。
Match the Chinese to the English. Match Pairs

Match the skills:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: All matched correctly.
Which one uses the V-not-V question pattern? Multiple Choice

Identify the natural question:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Both are correct.
Choose the negative form. Fill in the Blank

老师今天 ___ 喝咖啡。(Lǎoshī jīntiān ___ hē kāfēi.)

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 不
Reorder the words. Sentence Reorder

代码 | 写 | 你 | 会吗

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 你会写代码吗？
Translate: 'Do you know how to use this?' Translation

Do you know how to use this?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 你会用这个吗？

Score: /10

FAQ (8)

No, only for learned skills or future probability.

Use {不会|bú huì}.

Only when 'can' means 'know how to'.

Because {会|huì} is a modal verb that modifies the main action.

No, use {可以|kěyǐ}.

No, it stays the same.

It is neutral and used in all registers.

Add {吗|ma} at the end.

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 high

Saber

Spanish conjugates for person; Chinese does not.

French high

Savoir

French has complex verb conjugations.

German moderate

Können

German uses one word for both skill and ability.

Japanese moderate

Dekiru

Japanese uses particles like 'ga' to mark ability.

Arabic low

Yastati'u

Arabic is highly inflected.

English low

Can

English lacks the specific skill/ability distinction.

Learning Path

Prerequisites

Previous
Negative Possession: How to say 'I don't have' (没有)
Next
How to say 'Can' or 'Able To': 能 (néng)

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