Learn how to form questions in Chinese using the positive-negative form of auxiliary verbs like 会 (huì), 能 (néng), and 可以 (kěyǐ)
1 Basic Sentence Pattern
In Chinese, questions can be formed by using the positive-negative form of verbs. However, when Auxiliary Verbs (助动词) like 会 (huì), 能 (néng), and 可以 (kěyǐ) are used, it is the Auxiliary Verb that is doubled in the positive-negative form, not the main verb. The positive-negative structure comes before the main verb.
Question Formation Flow
Complete Question: 你会不会说中文？
(Can you speak Chinese?)
Examples with Single-Syllable Auxiliary Verbs
| Structure | Chinese | English Translation | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|
| S + 会 + 不会 + V-O |
你会不会说中文？
|
Can you speak Chinese? | |
| S + 能 + 不能 + V-O |
我能不能看电视？
|
Can I watch TV? | |
| S + 会 + 不会 + V-O |
大家会不会跳舞？
|
Can everybody dance? |
Key Rule #1
Only the auxiliary verb is doubled in the positive-negative form, not the main verb.
Key Rule #2
The positive-negative structure comes before the main verb in the sentence.
Key Rule #3
Tone change rule: 不 (bù) changes to 不 (bú) when followed by a fourth tone character.
2 Two-Syllable Auxiliary Verbs
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3 Summary & Common Patterns
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Practice Exercises
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