可 (kě) can be used to intensify an adjective, or to add emphasis
to a verb. It is stronger than other modifiers, as 可 compares the
speaker‘s expectations with the actual situation. The meaning of 可
is very reliant on context.
可 is generally used by Northern speakers and is informal,
generally only used in spoken Chinese.
可 used to intensify an
adjective
Structure
Examples
In these examples, 可 is used a bit like 很, as it is used to
intensify an adjective:
- 这 只 小 狗 可 淘气 了！The speaker never
expected dogs to be this naughtyThese
dogs are so naughty!
- 哇，这 个 糖醋 里脊 可 好吃 了！The speaker
never dreamt that sweet and sour pork could taste this
goodWow! This sweet and sour pork is
delicious!
可 used to emphasize a verb
Structure
Examples
In these examples 可 is used a bit like 真, and used to emphasize
a verb:
- 你 可 来 了! The speaker never expected
it would take so long for you to get here)
- 你 可 别 喝 太 多 酒。 I'm not expecting
you to drink a lot)
- 你 可 别 走！ I'm blocking your way,
almost pleading with you, as I believe you are going to
leave)
- 话 可 不 能 这 样 说。 What you said
doesn't accord with my own beliefs)
In two of the sentences above, 可 is used with 别, and sounds a
bit like "don't even think about..." in English.
See also
Sources and further
reading
Books
Category:
B2 grammar points Category: Adverbs