Definition
岂能 is a fixed rhetorical-question phrase meaning 'how could (one) possibly?' It expresses strong disbelief, disapproval, or that something is unacceptable. It is typically used in formal or literary contexts and is followed by a verb phrase. The pattern is similar to English 'how can it be that...' but with a tone of moral outrage or impossibility.
v.p.
(rhetorical question) how could (one) possibly?how can (it) be?
Examples
- 岂能？Wǒmen qǐ néng zuò shì bù guǎn?How could we sit by and do nothing?
- 岂能？Nǐ qǐ néng zhèyàng duìdài péngyou?How could you treat a friend like this?
- 岂能？Tā qǐ néng zuò chū zhè zhǒng shì?How could he do such a thing?
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