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Learn Korean › Grammar › ko-ability

Can (~can do)

6 phrases with native audio and pronunciation. Tap play to listen — everything on this page is free to read.

Use this pattern to express that someone can do something or that something is possible. Add -(으)ㄹ 수 있어요 to a verb stem to show ability or possibility in a polite, casual way.

How it works

  • Verb stem + (으)ㄹ 수 있다 (can/able to)
  • Verb stem + (으)ㄹ 수 없다 (cannot/unable to)

Example sentences

  1. 나는 한국어를 조금 말할 수 있어요.

    I can speak a little Korean.

  2. 그는 수영을 할 수 없어요.

    He cannot swim.

  3. 너는 내일 올 수 있어?

    Can you come tomorrow?

  4. 이 영화는 온라인에서 볼 수 있어요.

    You can watch this movie online.

  5. 우리는 계단을 걸어 올라갈 수 있어요.

    We can walk up the stairs.

  6. 지금은 나갈 수 없어요.

    I cannot go out right now.

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