On the funcnon and meaning of “可” and “了” in the structure demonstrating the degree of “可 + X +了”

Abstract

      Structure showing "可 + X +了" is commonly used In modem Cantonses. However, whether 可 has function of showing degree or not, and if yes, how 可 shows degree, what grammatical role of 了in the structure, what Is its meanuig in the structure and so on. Academics have told different opinions so far. Studying the function and meaning of可and 了 in the structure showing degree "可 + X +了" does not merely help determining its semantics, but also contributing to teachmg modem Cantonese.