할 수 있어
hal su isseo
In Korean, "I can" is expressed as 할 수 있어 (hal su isseo).
This phrase is used to state that one has the ability or permission to do something.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb 하다 (to do), the dependent noun 수 (way/method/possibility) and the verb 있다 (to exist/to have). Literally, it translates to "to do can exist."
How does it change in a sentence?
To say 'I cannot', you replace the verb 있다 (to exist) with 없다 (to not exist), resulting in 할 수 없다.
How do you pronounce it?
hal su isseo
Did you know?
- Korean has a specific concept called can-do spirit or 할 수 있다 정신. It is a cultural drive toward optimism and perseverance, often used in motivational contexts to encourage others to overcome obstacles.
- The word 수 in 할 수 있어 originates from the Chinese character for 'hand'. This implies that the 'way' or 'possibility' of doing something is conceptually linked to the dexterity of a hand.
- While 할 수 있어 is common, there is a native Korean alternative using the word 줄 to express how one knows how to do something.
Examples in context
- 나는 무릎을 굽히지 않고 양쪽 손바닥을 바닥에 닿게 할 수 있어.I can place the palms of my hands on the floor without bending my knees.This sentence shows how to use 할 수 있어 to describe a physical ability.Tatoeba #13142385 by SN_H, translation #2097 by CK
- 영어를 할 수 있어요.I can speak English.This sentence uses 할 수 있어 to state the ability to speak English.Tatoeba #13174568 by atitarev, translation #256187 by CK
- 한국어를 할 수 있어요.I can speak Korean.This sentence uses 할 수 있어 to state the ability to speak Korean.Tatoeba #13174502 by atitarev, translation #13174525 by atitarev
- 제가 조금 할 수 있습니다.I can do a little.
- 할 수 있어.I can do it.
- 4 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Jihoon and Jieun are talking about a difficult puzzle.
- 지훈 Ji-hun지은아, 이 퍼즐 맞출 수 있어?Jieun-a, i peojeul majchul su isseo?Jieun, can you finish this puzzle?
- 지은 Ji-eun응, 나는 혼자서 할 수 있어.Eung, naneun honjaseo hal su isseo.Yes, I can do it by myself.
- 지훈 Ji-hun정말? 대단하다!Jeongmal? Daedanhada!Really? That's amazing!
- 지은 Ji-eun고마워, 조금만 더 하면 돼.Gomawo, jogeumman deo hamyeon dwae.Thanks, I just need a little more time.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 수, 할, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
