Meaning
可 is a highly versatile character that primarily functions as an auxiliary verb meaning 'can' or 'may,' indicating possibility or permission. It also appears as a prefix in many adjectives (like 可爱 'cute') and can serve as an adverb meaning 'indeed' or 'really' for emphasis. As a verb, it can mean 'to be worth' or 'to approve.'
Usage
In modern Mandarin, 可 as a standalone auxiliary verb is somewhat literary; speakers more commonly use 可以 or 能 for 'can.' However, 可 remains extremely common as a prefix in adjective compounds and as an emphatic adverb in spoken language. When used for emphasis, it often appears in patterns like 可...了 to mean 'really/so [adjective].'
Examples
- 01今天可冷了！!It's really cold today!
- 02这个主意可行。.This idea is feasible.
Common collocations
- 可...了...really/so [adjective]
- 可不是exactly, that's right
- 可好really good
Antonyms
Origin
Oracle bone inscriptions show 可 originally depicted a mouth (口) and a bent stroke, possibly representing the throat, conveying the idea of approval or permission spoken from the mouth.