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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'possibility' with 可能 (kěnéng)

    Condition
    Degree & Intensity

    Structure

    可能 / 有可能 + Verb

    Explanation

    The word 可能 (kěnéng) can function as a noun meaning 'possibility,' an adjective meaning 'possible,' or an adverb meaning 'possibly.' As a noun, it refers to the chance or likelihood of something occurring, as in 削减供应的可能 (the possibility of cutting supply). It is one of the most versatile and frequently used words in Chinese.

    Examples

    • 明天下雨的可能很大，带把伞吧。

      Míngtiān xiàyǔ de kěnéng hěn dà, dài bǎ sǎn ba.

      There's a good chance of rain tomorrow; bring an umbrella.

    • 我们不能排除出现问题的可能。

      Wǒmen bùnéng páichú chūxiàn wèntí de kěnéng.

      We cannot rule out the possibility of problems arising.

    • 他可能已经到家了，你打电话问问。

      Tā kěnéng yǐjīng dào jiā le, nǐ dǎ diànhuà wènwen.

      He's probably already home; give him a call and ask.

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