못 V-아/어요
Used to express the subject's lack of ability to do something, or that an action is impossible due to external circumstances. It means 'cannot', whereas '안' means 'do not'.
Summary
Equivalent
Cannot / Unable to
Also: -지 못해요 · -ㄹ 수 없어요
Example
My leg hurts, so I can't exercise.
다리가 아파서 운동을 못 해요.
Grammar rules
- Place '못' directly before the verb.
- For '하다' verbs, place '못' right before '하다' (e.g., 수영 못 해요).
- Alternatively, use '-지 못하다' attached to the verb stem for a slightly more formal feel.
- Cannot be used with adjectives (except in very specific cases expressing disappointed expectations).
못 예뻐요 (X) -> 안 예뻐요 (O)
Patterns
General Verbs
현재/과거/미래 (All Tenses) · 못 + V
Noun + 하다 Verbs
현재/과거/미래 (All Tenses) · Noun + 못 + 하다
Long Negation Alternative
현재/과거/미래 (All Tenses) · V-지 못해요
Example sentences
My leg hurts, so I can't exercise.
다리가 아파서 운동을 못 해요.
I was so busy yesterday that I couldn't do my homework.
어제 너무 바빠서 숙제를 못 했어요.
I can't eat spicy food well.
저는 매운 음식을 잘 먹지 못해요.
Conversation
A: Shall we eat dinner together this evening?
오늘 저녁에 같이 밥 먹을까요?
B: I'm sorry. I have plans, so I can't go.
미안해요. 약속이 있어서 못 가요.
Practice
Fill in the blank
Select the correct form expressing inability.
Skills.
Sickness.