Definition
肯 (kěn) expresses one's own willingness or readiness to do something, focusing on personal volition rather than simply agreeing with others. It differs from 同意 (tóngyì) 'to agree (with an idea)' and 答应 (dāying) 'to agree (to a request/promise)'. 甘心 (gānxīn) also means 'willing' but often implies reluctant or resigned acceptance.
verb
to be willing toto consent
Easily confused
- 步bùlook-alike(noun) step (in walking), pace
- 正zhènglook-alike(adverb) exactly, just (at that time or place)
- 啃kěnlook-aliketo gnaw or nibble (on something hard, like a bone or corn cob)
Examples
- ，。Tā bù kěn qù, wǒmen yě méi bànfǎ.He's not willing to go, so there's nothing we can do.
- 肯，。Zhǐyào nǐ kěn xué, wǒ jiù kěyǐ jiāo nǐ.As long as you're willing to learn, I can teach you.
- 肯。Tā kěn jiè qián gěi wǒ.He is willing to lend me money.
Browse more HSK 6 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.