Definitions
(auxiliary verb)
can; may; able to
(verb)
to approve; to permit
(adjective)
suitable; fitting
(particle)
certainly; very
About
The character "可" originated in early Chinese script through the combination of "口" symbolizing a mouth and "丂" possibly representing breath or sound, which together conveyed the concept of verbal assent or permission. Its meaning gradually expanded from denoting approval to functioning as a modal verb indicating ability or possibility, as in contemporary uses for "can" or "may". This semantic development further allowed it to become a prefix in compound words where it suggests something is worthy of a particular quality, exemplified by terms like "可爱" for lovable. Throughout its history, the character's structure has remained consistent, with its components continuing to reflect its etymological roots in human expression and agreement.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这本书可有趣了。
你可以来我家。
她的小狗非常可爱。
明天可能下雨。
我很累，可是还得工作。
你可不可以帮我一个忙？
虽然价格很高，可是质量非常好。
鉴于目前的情况，我们可采取的措施有限。