có thể
[kɔ˧˦ tʰe˧˩]
In Vietnamese, the phrase for "can" is có thể.
có thể is used to express general ability, possibility or a certain level of probability, similar to how "may" or "might" are used in English.
Meaning: to be able to, to know how to (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase có thể is composed of có, which means "to have" and thể, which refers to "form", "condition" or "possibility".
Which one should you use?
While có thể expresses general ability or possibility, the word biết is used specifically when referring to a learned skill or knowing how to perform a specific task.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
In natural speech, có thể is often paired with the word được at the end of the clause to emphasize that an action is possible or achievable, forming the pattern có thể… được.
Did you know?
- The word thể in có thể is a Sino-Vietnamese term that refers to the physical 'body', suggesting that one 'has the body' required for an action.
- In casual speech, Vietnamese speakers often drop có thể entirely and just place the word được at the end of the sentence to show that something is possible.
Examples in context
- Nó có thể sủa.It can bark.This sentence shows the use of có thể to describe an animal's ability.Tatoeba #13341188 by leucammieuvu, translation #11878280 by Amastan
- Tôi có thể đi.I can go.This sentence demonstrates the use of có thể for personal ability.Tatoeba #13638148 by leucammieuvu, translation #3092548 by CK
- Chó có thể bơi.Dogs can swim.This sentence illustrates the use of có thể regarding the ability of dogs.Tatoeba #13508467 by leucammieuvu, translation #239185 by blay_paul
- Tôi cần một cái bút.I need a pen.
- Bạn có thể giúp tôi không? Tôi cần một ít tiền.Can you help me? I need some money.
- Anh có thể đến chỗ tôi không?Can you come to my place?
- Chúng ta có thể làm việc này cùng nhau.We can do this together.
- 398 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hùng asks Hương if she is able to come to a party.
- HùngHương có thể đến dự tiệc tối nay không?Can Hương come to the party tonight?
- HươngTôi có thể đến, nhưng tôi sẽ đến muộn.I can come, but I will arrive late.
- HùngKhông sao, tôi có thể đợi cô.That's okay, I can wait for you.
- HươngCảm ơn anh, Hùng nhé.Thank you, Hùng.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry có thể, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries có, có thể, thể, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
