能否

néng fǒu

HSK 3.0 Level 4 Common

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Definitions

1. whether or not
2. can it or can't it
3. is it possible?
4. whether something can be done

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Word relationships

Synonyms

1 item

• 是否 shì fǒu 是否 shì fǒu whether (or not) Both mean 'whether or not', used in formal questions.: whether (or not)

Usage notes

Common mistakes

Cannot be used to ask for permission. Use 可不可以 for requests.

Formality

Mostly used in written or formal spoken contexts. In casual speech, 能不能 is preferred.

Example Sentences

1 shown

你 能否 帮我一个忙？

Could you help me with a favor?

AI-generated examples are marked with this icon.

Child Words of 能否

• 能 能 néng: can
• 否 否 fǒu: to negate
• 否 否 pǐ: clogged