A1 Complement System 15 min read Easy

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

Use Verb+得了/不了 (déliǎo/bùliǎo) to express whether you have the capacity to complete an action.
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Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

Use {得|de}了 for 'can finish/achieve' and {不|bù}了 for 'cannot finish/achieve' after a verb.

  • Affirmative: Verb + {得|de} + {了|liǎo} (I can finish it).
  • Negative: Verb + {不|bù} + {了|liǎo} (I cannot finish it).
  • Question: Verb + {得|de} + {了|liǎo} + {吗|ma}? (Can you finish it?)
Verb + 得/不 + 了 = Potential Result

Overview

In Chinese grammar, expressing whether an action can or cannot be accomplished is fundamental. While other potential complements focus on the result of an action, V-得了 (V-déliǎo) and V-不了 (V-bùliǎo) zero in on the capacity or feasibility of the action itself. This crucial pair helps you articulate if something is manageable, within one's physical or temporal limits, or if external circumstances permit its completion.

It's not about whether you know how to do something, but whether you can or cannot actually bring it to fruition.

This pattern utilizes a specialized pronunciation of the character 了, liǎo (third tone), distinct from the more common aspect particle 了 (le) (neutral tone). Mastering this distinction and the application of déliǎo and bùliǎo elevates your Chinese from basic statements to nuanced expressions of capability, limitation, and possibility.

How This Grammar Works

At its core, V-得了 and V-不了 function as potential complements that attach directly after a verb, indicating the inherent capacity or feasibility of executing that verb's action. The character 了 in this context, pronounced liǎo, carries a meaning akin to "to finish," "to complete," or "to manage." Therefore, V-得了 literally suggests "verb-can-manage-to-completion," while V-不了 implies "verb-cannot-manage-to-completion."
Crucially, V-得了 and V-不了 express an internal or contextual limitation rather than a general skill deficiency or a prohibition. This distinguishes it from other forms of expressing ability or inability. For example, 我吃不了 (wǒ chī bùliǎo) (I can't eat [anymore]) implies a personal physical limit (e.g., being full), not a lack of knowledge on how to eat.
Similarly, 你来得了 (nǐ lái déliǎo) (Can you make it?) inquires about their ability to arrive, given their schedule or other commitments.
Here are the key aspects:
  • Pronunciation is paramount: The 了 in V-得了 / V-不了 is always pronounced with a third tone, liǎo. This contrasts sharply with the neutral-toned aspect particle 了 (le) that indicates completion or change of state. Mispronouncing liǎo will lead to confusion or unintelligibility. Practice distinguishing 吃饱了 (chī bǎo le) (ate till full, completed action) from 吃得了 (chī déliǎo) (can manage to eat).
  • Focus on feasibility/capacity: This structure is used when considering if an action can be performed under specific circumstances or due to an inherent limit. It is about whether you are able to handle the action, not whether you know how to do it or are allowed to do it. For instance, 这个工作我做不了 (zhè ge gōngzuò wǒ zuò bùliǎo) (I can't do this job) might mean it's too difficult, too time-consuming, or requires more energy than you possess.
  • Affirmative less common: While both forms exist, the negative V-不了 is significantly more prevalent in daily speech than V-得了. This is because stating one's inability or limitations often requires more explicit communication than simply stating capability.
Consider the nuance: 他走得了 (tā zǒu déliǎo) means "He can manage to walk" (e.g., despite being tired), whereas 他会走 (tā huì zǒu) means "He knows how to walk." The difference lies in capacity versus learned skill.

Formation Pattern

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The formation of V-得了 and V-不了 is straightforward, involving the verb directly followed by the potential complement.
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1. Affirmative Form: Can / Is able to / Is manageable
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This form indicates that the action can be successfully carried out, often despite potential obstacles, or that one has the capacity to handle it. It is formed by inserting 得 (de) between the verb and 了 (liǎo).
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| Structure | Example | Pinyin | Translation |
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| :----------------- | :------------------------------------------------ | :---------------------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------------- |
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| Verb + 得 + 了 | 我今天晚上加班，九点以前肯定忙得了。 | wǒ jīntiān wǎnshang jiābān, jiǔ diǎn yǐqián kěndìng máng déliǎo. | I’m working overtime tonight, I can definitely finish before 9 PM. |
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| | 这点小事，他一个人搞得了。 | zhè diǎn xiǎoshì, tā yīgè rén gǎo déliǎo. | He can handle this small matter by himself. |
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2. Negative Form: Cannot / Is unable to / Is unmanageable
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This is the most common usage and expresses that an action cannot be performed due to various limitations such as physical capacity, time, energy, or difficulty. It is formed by inserting 不 (bù) between the verb and 了 (liǎo).
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| Structure | Example | Pinyin | Translation |
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| :----------------- | :------------------------------------------------ | :------------------------------------------ | :--------------------------------------------------- |
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| Verb + 不 + 了 | 这个行李箱太重了，我一个人搬不了。 | zhè ge xínglǐxiāng tài zhòng le, wǒ yīgè rén bān bùliǎo. | This suitcase is too heavy, I can’t carry it by myself. |
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| | 明天我有事，去不了你们的派对。 | míngtiān wǒ yǒu shì, qù bùliǎo nǐmen de pàiduì. | I have something tomorrow, so I can’t go to your party. |
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3. Interrogative Forms: Can you...? / Is it manageable?
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To ask questions using this pattern, you can employ either the affirmative-negative (A-not-A) structure or simply add 吗 (ma) to the affirmative form. These questions inquire about the listener's capability or the feasibility of an action.
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| Structure | Example | Pinyin | Translation |
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| :------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------ | :---------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- |
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| Verb + 得 + 了 + Verb + 不 + 了 | 这么多作业，你今天写得了写不了？ | zhème duō zuòyè, nǐ jīntiān xiě déliǎo xiě bùliǎo? | So much homework, can you finish writing it today or not? |
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| Verb + 得 + 了 + 吗 | 你病得这么厉害，明天上班去得了吗？ | nǐ bìng de zhème lìhai, míngtiān shàngbān qù déliǎo ma? | You’re so sick, can you go to work tomorrow? |

When To Use It

V-得了 / V-不了 is highly versatile and frequently used in situations where one's capacity, time, or the inherent difficulty of a task is being discussed. It highlights a practical limit or capability.
  1. 1Physical Limitations or Capacity: When you are too full, too tired, or something is too heavy.
  • 我跑不动了，真走不了了。 (wǒ pǎo bù dòng le, zhēn zǒu bùliǎo le.) – I can’t run anymore, I really can’t walk any further. (Expresses physical exhaustion).
  • 这碗饭太多了，我吃不了。 (zhè wǎn fàn tài duō le, wǒ chī bùliǎo.) – This bowl of rice is too much, I can’t eat it all. (Indicates being too full).
  1. 1Time Constraints or Availability: When there isn't enough time, or one's schedule prevents an action.
  • 这个周末我约满了，陪不了你去看电影了。 (zhè ge zhōumò wǒ yuē mǎn le, péi bùliǎo nǐ qù kàn diànyǐng le.) – I’m fully booked this weekend, I can’t accompany you to watch the movie. (Lack of time/availability).
  • 会议时间太短，讨论不了这么多问题。 (huìyì shíjiān tài duǎn, tǎolùn bùliǎo zhème duō wèntí.) – The meeting time is too short, we can’t discuss so many issues. (Not enough time for the task).
  1. 1Difficulty or Cognitive Capacity: When a task is too hard, complex, or beyond one's understanding or skill level in a specific context.
  • 这道题太难了，我一个人算不了。 (zhè dào tí tài nán le, wǒ yīgè rén suàn bùliǎo.) – This problem is too difficult, I can’t solve it by myself. (Too hard to comprehend/solve).
  • 他的方言我听不了，完全不明白。 (tā de fāngyán wǒ tīng bùliǎo, wánquán bù míngbái.) – I can’t understand his dialect, I completely don’t get it. (Beyond one's listening comprehension).
  1. 1Handling Responsibility or Emotional Capacity: When one cannot bear a responsibility or an emotional burden.
  • 这个责任我负不了。 (zhè ge zérèn wǒ fù bùliǎo.) – I cannot bear this responsibility. (Implies the burden is too great).
  • 这种压力，他承受不了多久。 (zhè zhǒng yālì, tā chéngshòu bùliǎo duōjiǔ.) – He can’t bear this kind of pressure for long. (Emotional limit).
  1. 1General Feasibility/Manageability: To assess whether an action is practical or achievable.
  • 你觉得这个计划行得了行不了？ (nǐ juéde zhè ge jìhuà xíng déliǎo xíng bùliǎo?) – Do you think this plan is feasible or not? (Asking about practicality).

Common Mistakes

Understanding V-得了 / V-不了 deeply requires avoiding several common pitfalls that often trip up learners. These mistakes typically stem from confusing liǎo with le, misapplying V-不了 to past events, or conflating it with other expressions of inability.
  1. 1Confusing 了 (liǎo) with the aspect particle 了 (le): This is arguably the most frequent error. Remember, 了 (liǎo) (third tone) indicates potential or manageability, while 了 (le) (neutral tone) marks completion of an action or a change of state. They are entirely different grammatical functions and pronunciations.
  • Incorrect: 我昨天吃不了饭。 (wǒ zuótiān chī bùliǎo fàn.) – This would imply "Yesterday, I was incapable of eating food" (perhaps due to being physically unable to move one's jaw), which is highly unnatural if you simply mean you didn't eat.
  • Correct: 我昨天没吃饭。 (wǒ zuótiān méi chī fàn.) – I didn't eat yesterday. (Simple negation of past action).
  • Correct: 我昨天吃完了饭。 (wǒ zuótiān chī wán le fàn.) – I finished eating yesterday. (Using le as an aspect particle).
  1. 1Using V-不了 for past inability/non-occurrence: V-不了 primarily refers to inability in the present or future. To express that something could not happen or did not happen in the past (because it was impossible or you didn't manage it), other structures are typically used.
  • Incorrect: 上周太忙了，所以去不了电影院。 (shàng zhōu tài máng le, suǒyǐ qù bùliǎo diànyǐngyuàn.) – This sentence feels awkward because 去不了 implies a present/future inability, not a past one.
  • Correct: 上周太忙了，所以没去电影院。 (shàng zhōu tài máng le, suǒyǐ méi qù diànyǐngyuàn.) – I was too busy last week, so I didn't go to the cinema. (Simple past negation).
  • Correct: 上周太忙了，所以没去成电影院。 (shàng zhōu tài máng le, suǒyǐ méi qù chéng diànyǐngyuàn.) – I was too busy last week, so I couldn't make it to the cinema. (没 + V + 成 explicitly indicates an unfulfilled attempt or desired outcome in the past).
  1. 1Over-generalizing V-不了 to mean 不能 (bù néng): While V-不了 expresses inability, it's a specific type. 不能 (bù néng) + V is more general, encompassing lack of permission, external prohibition, or general impossibility. V-不了 emphasizes internal capacity or contextual feasibility.
  • Context: You are allergic to peanuts.
  • Correct: 我不能吃花生。 (wǒ bù néng chī huāshēng.) – I cannot eat peanuts. (Prohibition/allergy).
  • Context: You are full.
  • Correct: 我吃不了花生了。 (wǒ chī bùliǎo huāshēng le.) – I can’t eat any more peanuts. (Physical capacity limit).
  1. 1Stacking V-不了 with other resultative complements: V-得了 / V-不了 already functions as a potential complement. You generally do not combine it with other resultative complements that denote a specific result (e.g., 清楚 (qīngchu) "clear," 懂 (dǒng) "understand," 好 (hǎo) "well").
  • Incorrect: 我听不了清楚。 (wǒ tīng bùliǎo qīngchu.)
  • Correct: 我听不清楚。 (wǒ tīng bù qīngchu.) – I can't hear clearly. (Using V-不 + RC structure).
  • Correct: 这个会议，我太忙听不了。 (zhè ge huìyì, wǒ tài máng tīng bùliǎo.) – I’m too busy to listen to this meeting. (Focus on inability to manage the action).

Real Conversations

V-得了 / V-不了 is an incredibly pervasive structure in everyday Chinese, reflecting the pragmatic way speakers discuss their limits, capabilities, and the feasibility of tasks. It appears in casual chats, professional settings, and even digital communication.

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Scenario 1

Physical Limit / Capacity

- A: 再吃点儿吧，这个菜很好吃！ (zài chī diǎnr ba, zhè ge cài hěn hǎochī!) – Have some more, this dish is delicious!

- B: 谢谢，我真的吃不了了，太饱了。 (xièxie, wǒ zhēnde chī bùliǎo le, tài bǎo le.) – Thanks, I really can’t eat any more, I’m too full.

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Scenario 2

Time Constraint / Availability

- A (text message): 明晚的电影你看得了吗？八点半的。 (míngwǎn de diànyǐng nǐ kàn déliǎo ma? bā diǎn bàn de.) – Can you make it to the movie tomorrow night? The 8:30 one.

- B (text message): 哎呀，我可能看不了，明天有个紧急会议。 (āiyā, wǒ kěnéng kàn bùliǎo, míngtiān yǒu ge jǐnjí huìyì.) – Oh no, I probably can’t make it, I have an urgent meeting tomorrow.

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Scenario 3

Difficulty / Managing a Task

- Colleague A: 这个报告今晚能发出去吗？ (zhè ge bàogào jīn wǎn néng fā chūqù ma?) – Can this report be sent out tonight?

- Colleague B: 这么多数据要核对，我一个人弄不了。 (zhème duō shùjù yào héduì, wǒ yīgè rén nòng bùliǎo.) – So much data to cross-check, I can’t handle it by myself.

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Scenario 4

Expressing Confidence / Doubts

- Boss: 这个项目交给你，你做得了吗？ (zhè ge xiàngmù jiāo gěi nǐ, nǐ zuò déliǎo ma?) – This project is entrusted to you, can you handle it?

- Employee: 老板放心，我做得了！ (láobǎn fàngxīn, wǒ zuò déliǎo!) – Boss, don’t worry, I can handle it!

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Scenario 5

Responsibility / Bearing a Burden

- Friend A: 出了问题，你要负责。 (chū le wèntí, nǐ yào fù zé.) – If there's a problem, you'll be responsible.

- Friend B: 这个后果太严重了，我承担不了。 (zhè ge hòuguǒ tài yánzhòng le, wǒ chéngdān bùliǎo.) – The consequences are too severe, I can’t bear them.

Notice how the context always clarifies why the action can or cannot be performed. The V-得了 / V-不了 structure itself signals that a limitation or capacity is the core issue.

Contrast With Similar Patterns

Chinese has several ways to express ability and inability, and distinguishing V-得了 / V-不了 from similar-sounding or related structures is key to precise communication. The primary distinction lies in the nature of the inability or ability being expressed.
1. V-不了 (bùliǎo) vs. 不能 (bù néng) + Verb
These two are often confused, but they convey different types of inability:
  • V-不了: Implies an internal, contextual, or practical limitation. You cannot do it because of insufficient capacity (physical, mental, temporal), difficulty, or a lack of opportunity in that specific situation. It's often about hitting a personal or circumstantial limit.
  • 我太累了，今天走不了了。 (wǒ tài lèi le, jīntiān zǒu bùliǎo le.) – I’m too tired, I can’t walk any more today. (Internal physical limit).
  • 这个会开到九点，我九点半的飞机赶不了了。 (zhè ge huì kāi dào jiǔ diǎn, wǒ jiǔ diǎn bàn de fēijī gǎn bùliǎo le.) – This meeting goes until 9 PM, I won’t be able to catch my 9:30 flight. (External time constraint).
  • 不能 + Verb: Implies a prohibition, lack of permission, or a general inability/impossibility (e.g., due to rules, objective facts, or a fundamental lack of skill). It’s about what is not allowed or what is objectively impossible/unknown.
  • 病人不能吃油腻的东西。 (bìngrén bù néng chī yóunì de dōngxī.) – Patients cannot eat greasy food. (Prohibition/medical advice).
  • 他不能喝酒，一喝就过敏。 (tā bù néng hē jiǔ, yī hē jiù guòmǐn.) – He cannot drink alcohol, he gets allergic reactions as soon as he drinks. (General physical condition).
  • 这里不能拍照。 (zhèli bù néng pāizhào.) – No photography here. (Rule/prohibition).
Summary of Distinction:
| Feature | V-不了 | 不能 + Verb |
| :--------- | :----------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------ |
| Focus | Internal capacity, contextual feasibility | Prohibition, general inability, external rule |
| Reason | Too tired, too full, too busy, too difficult | Not allowed, physically allergic, generally impossible |
2. V-不了 (bùliǎo) vs. V-不完 (bù wán)
Both express incompletion, but 完 (wán) is a specific result complement meaning "to finish completely." The distinction lies in the reason for incompletion:
  • V-不完: Specifically means one cannot finish something because the quantity is too large or the task is too lengthy. The focus is on the sheer amount or duration.
  • 这么多作业，我今天写不完。 (zhème duō zuòyè, wǒ jīntiān xiě bù wán.) – So much homework, I can't finish writing it today. (Too much quantity).
  • V-不了: Is a broader statement of inability or unmanageability. While it can overlap with V-不完 if the reason is quantity, it can also refer to other limitations (e.g., time, energy, difficulty, emotional burden). The focus is on the general capacity to do the action.
  • 这么多作业，我今天写不了。 (zhème duō zuòyè, wǒ jīntiān xiě bùliǎo.) – So much homework, I can't write it today. (Could be because it's too much, or because you're too tired, or have no time, or it's too hard).
3. V-得了 / V-不了 vs. Other Potential Complements (V-得/不 + RC)
Chinese has a rich system of potential complements like V-得懂 / V-不懂 (can/cannot understand), V-得清 / V-不清 (can/cannot see/hear clearly), V-得好 / V-不好 (can/cannot do well). The core difference is specificity:
  • V-得了 / V-不了: Expresses the general feasibility or manageability of the action. It asks if you can do the verb at all, given circumstances.
  • 这个电影我看不了。 (zhè ge diànyǐng wǒ kàn bùliǎo.) – I can’t watch this movie. (Perhaps too scary, don't have time, or it's unavailable).
  • V-得/不 + RC (Result Complement): Expresses the ability or inability to achieve a specific result from the action.
  • 这个电影我看不懂。 (zhè ge diànyǐng wǒ kàn bù dǒng.) – I can’t understand this movie. (Focus on the result of understanding).
  • 太黑了，我看不清。 (tài hēi le, wǒ kàn bù qīng.) – It’s too dark, I can’t see clearly. (Focus on the result of clarity).
Summary of Potential Complements:
| Structure | Meaning | Focus | Example |
| :------------------ | :--------------------------------------------- | :-------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------- |
| V-得了 / V-不了 | Can/cannot manage the action | General feasibility/capacity | 我吃不了。 (wǒ chī bùliǎo.) – I can’t eat any more. |
| V-得/不 + RC | Can/cannot achieve specific result | Achievement of a specific outcome | 我看不懂。 (wǒ kàn bù dǒng.) – I can’t understand. |
| V-得/不 + 方向补语 | Can/cannot achieve directional movement result | Directional movement | 我进不去。 (wǒ jìn bù qù.) – I can’t go in. |

Quick FAQ

  • Is V-得了 used often?
While V-不了 is significantly more common in daily conversation for expressing limitations, V-得了 is certainly used. It frequently appears in questions (e.g., 你记得了吗？ (nǐ jì déliǎo ma?) – Can you remember it?) or to express confidence (e.g., `我一个人应付得了。
(wǒ yīgè rén yìngfu déliǎo.)` – I can handle it by myself).
  • Can V-得了 / V-不了 be used with any verb?
It primarily works with action verbs that imply a process or effort that can be

Potential Complement Conjugation

Type Structure Example
Affirmative
Verb + 得 + 了
吃得了
Negative
Verb + 不 + 了
吃不了
Question
Verb + 得 + 了 + 吗
吃得了吗
Negative Question
Verb + 得 + 了 + 不 + 了
吃得了吃不了

Meanings

These particles indicate the possibility or impossibility of completing an action or achieving a result.

1

Completion

Ability to finish a task.

“我吃{得了|déliǎo}这么多。”

“他做{不了|bùliǎo}这份工作。”

Reference Table

Reference table for Can or Can't? Using V-得了 / V-不了 (déliǎo / bùliǎo)
Form Structure Example
Affirmative
V + 得 + 了
我吃得了
Negative
V + 不 + 了
我吃不了
Question
V + 得 + 了 + 吗
你吃得了吗
Short Answer
V + 得/不 + 了
吃得了/吃不了

Formality Spectrum

Formal
我无法完成此项任务。

我无法完成此项任务。 (Work)

Neutral
我做不了这个。

我做不了这个。 (Work)

Informal
我做不了啦。

我做不了啦。 (Work)

Slang
搞不定啊。

搞不定啊。 (Work)

Potential Complement Map

Verb + 得/不 + 了

Affirmative

  • 吃得了 Can finish eating

Negative

  • 吃不了 Cannot finish eating
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Examples by Level

1

我吃{不了|bùliǎo}。

I can't finish eating.

2

你买{得了|déliǎo}吗？

Can you buy it?

3

我做{不了|bùliǎo}。

I can't do it.

4

他去{得了|déliǎo}。

He can go.

1

这么多作业，我写{不了|bùliǎo}。

So much homework, I can't finish writing it.

2

你今天走{得了|déliǎo}吗？

Can you leave today?

3

这件衣服我买{不了|bùliǎo}。

I can't afford/buy this clothes.

4

他喝{得了|déliǎo}这么多酒。

He can drink this much alcohol.

1

因为太忙，这个项目我做{不了|bùliǎo}。

Because I'm too busy, I can't finish this project.

2

你确定你搬{得了|déliǎo}这个箱子吗？

Are you sure you can move this box?

3

他一个人看{不了|bùliǎo}这么多书。

He can't finish reading so many books alone.

4

我们今天赶{得了|déliǎo}飞机吗？

Can we make it to the flight today?

1

考虑到时间限制，我们完成{不了|bùliǎo}任务。

Considering the time limit, we cannot complete the task.

2

他那样的性格，适应{不了|bùliǎo}这种环境。

With his personality, he cannot adapt to this environment.

3

这笔钱，他拿{得了|déliǎo}出来吗？

Can he come up with this money?

4

这种压力，一般人承受{不了|bùliǎo}。

This kind of pressure, most people can't handle.

1

面对如此复杂的局势，他处理{不了|bùliǎo}。

Facing such a complex situation, he cannot handle it.

2

这等重任，他恐怕承担{不了|bùliǎo}。

Such a heavy responsibility, I fear he cannot bear it.

3

即便有心，他也改变{不了|bùliǎo}现状。

Even if he wants to, he cannot change the status quo.

4

这道难题，学生们解{得了|déliǎo}吗？

Can the students solve this difficult problem?

1

历史的洪流，谁也阻挡{不了|bùliǎo}。

No one can stop the torrent of history.

2

这种深奥的理论，他理解{不了|bùliǎo}。

He cannot comprehend this profound theory.

3

这般恩情，我报答{不了|bùliǎo}。

This kind of kindness, I cannot repay.

4

此等变故，他预料{不了|bùliǎo}。

Such an incident, he could not have foreseen.

Easily Confused

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

Learners use '会' for everything.

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

Both mean 'can'.

Can or Can't? Using V-得了 / V-不了 (déliǎo / bùliǎo) vs 完 (wán) vs 了 (liǎo)

Both relate to completion.

Common Mistakes

✗

我得吃。

✓

我吃得了。

得 is not a standalone modal here.
✗

我不吃。

✓

我吃不了。

我不吃 means 'I don't eat', not 'I can't eat'.
✗

我吃得。

✓

我吃得了。

Missing the 了.
✗

我能吃得了。

✓

我吃得了。

Redundant modal.
✗

我做会了。

✓

我做得了吗？

Wrong word order.
✗

我不做得了。

✓

我做不了。

Incorrect negation.
✗

我能做不了。

✓

我做不了。

Contradictory modals.
✗

我完成得。

✓

我完成得了。

Missing complement.
✗

我没做得了。

✓

我做不了。

Wrong tense marker.
✗

我做不了了。

✓

我做不了。

Redundant 了.
✗

他处理得。

✓

他处理得了。

Missing complement.
✗

他承受得了不？

✓

他承受得了吗？

Question particle error.
✗

他改变不了了。

✓

他改变不了。

Redundant 了.

Sentence Patterns

我___得了。

这么多作业，我___不了。

你觉得他___得了这个任务吗？

这种压力，我___不了。

Real World Usage

Restaurant very common

我吃不了这么多。

Work common

我做不了这个项目。

Shopping common

我买不了这个。

Travel occasional

我赶不了飞机。

Texting very common

我写不了了。

Job Interview occasional

我处理得了。

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💡

Focus on the result

Always ask yourself: is this about finishing something?
⚠️

Don't use '会'

Don't use '会' for capacity.
🎯

Use in questions

It's great for asking if someone can handle a task.
💬

Be polite

Sometimes '我做不了' sounds direct; add '不好意思' first.

Smart Tips

Use V-不了 instead of just 'no'.

我不做。 → 我做不了。

Use V-不了 to say you are full.

我饱了。 → 我吃不了了。

Use V-不了 to explain your limit.

我没时间。 → 我做不了。

Use V-得了吗 to check capacity.

你能做吗？ → 你做得了吗？

Pronunciation

liǎo

Neutral tone

The 'le' in 'liao' is often neutral.

Rising for questions

吃得了吗？↗

Asking for confirmation.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of '得' as a 'thumbs up' (can) and '不' as a 'stop sign' (cannot).

Visual Association

Imagine a person trying to carry a giant box. If they can lift it, they say '搬得了'. If they drop it, they say '搬不了'.

Rhyme

得得了，能完成；不不了，没法成。

Story

Xiao Wang is at a buffet. He sees a huge cake. He thinks, '我吃得了' (I can finish it). But after three bites, he is full. He sighs, '我吃不了了' (I can't finish it anymore).

Word Web

吃得了做不了买得了去不了看得了写不了

Challenge

For the next 5 minutes, look at everything around you and say if you can finish it (e.g., 'I can finish this coffee' -> 我喝得了).

Cultural Notes

Very common in daily life, especially when talking about food portions.

Similar usage, but sometimes '能' is used more often.

Often map this to their own potential structures.

Derived from the verb '了' (to finish).

Conversation Starters

“

你吃得了这么多吗？

“

你今天做得完工作吗？

“

你觉得他处理得了这个问题吗？

“

这种压力，你承受得了吗？

Journal Prompts

Write about a meal you couldn't finish.
Write about a project you are struggling to finish.
Discuss a challenge you faced and whether you could handle it.
Reflect on a time you had to give up on a goal.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

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Test Yourself

Fill in the blank.

我吃___了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
It's a potential complement.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct structure.
Fix the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

我能吃不了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Remove redundant modal.
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: a
Correct word order.
Translate to Chinese. Translation

I can't finish it.

Answer starts with: a...

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct translation.
Match the meaning. Match Pairs

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

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct meaning.
Build a sentence. Sentence Building

Use '买' and '不了'.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct structure.
Conjugate. Conjugation Drill

Affirmative of '看'?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct form.

Score: /8

Practice Exercises

8 exercises
Fill in the blank.

我吃___了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
It's a potential complement.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct structure.
Fix the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

我能吃不了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Remove redundant modal.
Reorder the words. Sentence Reorder

不了 / 我 / 做

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct word order.
Translate to Chinese. Translation

I can't finish it.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct translation.
Match the meaning. Match Pairs

吃不了

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct meaning.
Build a sentence. Sentence Building

Use '买' and '不了'.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct structure.
Conjugate. Conjugation Drill

Affirmative of '看'?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a
Correct form.

Score: /8

Practice Bank

10 exercises
Fill in the blank. Fill in the Blank

A: 你{一个人拿得了这么多东西吗|nǐ yīgè rén ná de liǎo zhème duō dōngxī ma}？ B: {没问题|méi wèntí}，我 ______。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 拿得了
Find and fix the mistake. Error Correction

我忘不了你的电话号码。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我忘不了你的电话号码。
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which sentence correctly expresses 'I can't afford this'?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我买不起这个。
Translate the following sentence into Chinese: Translation

This problem is too complex, I can't solve it.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 这个问题太复杂了，我解决不了。
Put the words in the correct order. Sentence Reorder

了 / 去 / 机场 / 我 / 今天 / 不

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我今天去不了机场。
Match the situation to the correct expression. Match Pairs

Match the pairs.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:
Fill in the blank. Fill in the Blank

演唱会的票太火了，我根本 ______。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 买不到
Choose the correct question. Multiple Choice

How to ask 'Can you (plural) come to the party tomorrow night or not?'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 明天晚上你们来得了来不了派对？
Find and fix the mistake. Error Correction

老板的要求我做不了到。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Both A and B are correct.
Translate the following sentence into Chinese: Translation

I can't stand this kind of weather.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我受不了这种天气。

Score: /10

FAQ (8)

No, it's about any task.

Sometimes, but '得了' is more specific to results.

Use '不了'.

It's neutral.

Add '吗'.

No, they are different.

Yes, widely understood.

Knowing when to use it vs '能'.

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 results.

French partial

Pouvoir + infinitive

Chinese grammar is more result-oriented.

German partial

Können

Chinese uses post-verbal particles.

Japanese moderate

Potential form (e.g., taberareru)

Chinese uses particles, Japanese uses suffixes.

Arabic low

يستطيع (yastati')

Chinese is post-verbal.

Chinese high

V-得了

N/A

Learning Path

Prerequisites

Previous
Can you handle it? (Verb + de liǎo)

Learn These First

A1 Requires

Chinese Particle 了 (le): The 'Status Update' Button

Overview The Chinese particle `了` (le), pronounced with a neutral tone, is one of the most fundamental and frequently u...
B1 Requires

Chinese Potential Complements: Can you reach the result? (V + 得 + R)

Overview Chinese grammar often emphasizes the **result** of an action as much as the action itself. This focus is perfec...

Continue With

A1 Builds On

Can you handle it? (Verb + de liǎo)

Overview In Chinese grammar, the pattern **Verb + `{得了|déliǎo}`** and its negative form **Verb + `{不了|bùliǎo}`** con...

Related Grammar Rules

A1

Ready & Done: Using 'hǎo' (好) as a Result

Overview In Chinese, the character `好` (`hǎo`) extends beyond its primary meaning of "good" or "okay" to function as a...
A1

The 'Finished' Word: Verb + 完 (wán)

Overview Learning a new language means understanding how speakers convey fundamental ideas. In Chinese, expressing **com...
A1

Success Markers: Using 到 (dào) for Results

Overview In Chinese grammar, **result complements** are indispensable for communicating not merely an action, but its de...
B1

Result Complement '住' (zhù): Fixing things in place

Overview The result complement `住 (zhù)` is a fundamental component of Chinese grammar, particularly at the B1 interme...
B1

Cannot Do It: Chinese Negative Potential Complements (V + 不 + Result)

Overview As a learner navigating the Chinese language, you'll quickly discover that directly translating English grammat...
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