Definitions
(verb)
can; to be able to; might possibly
(noun)
energy
Etymology
Pictograph of a bear. Based on the original meaning "bear". The meaning of this character has shifted over time to mean "strong" and "ability, power". Original form of 熊.
About
The character "能" was initially used to represent a bear in early Chinese writing, with its form originating from a pictorial depiction of the animal. Over time, its graphical representation condensed into the present structure, which in modern analysis is often described as consisting of the components 厶 and 月, though these are conventional interpretations rather than etymological origins. The meaning shifted from denoting the animal to expressing capability or power, a change that occurred through the process of phonetic loan. This semantic transition led to the creation of the character "熊" to specifically refer to the bear, while "能" became exclusively associated with concepts of ability and potential.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
我能做这件事。
你能帮我吗？
他能说三种语言。
她不能参加明天的会议。
努力学习就能取得进步。
这种手机功能很强大。
他的组织能力得到了大家的认可。
如果天气好，我们就能去爬山。