Translation guide
The English word 'ability' refers to the capacity to do something. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through nouns, verbs, and grammatical patterns that indicate potential, skill, or capability. The most common and natural ways to express ability involve the potential form of verbs or the noun 能力 (nouryoku).
Expressing that someone or something has the capacity to perform an action or achieve a result.
The potential form of a verb is the most natural way to express ability in Japanese. It directly indicates that the subject can perform the action. For ru-verbs, replace -ru with -rareru; for u-verbs, change the final -u to -eru. The irregular verb する becomes できる.
私は日本語が話せます。
I can speak Japanese.
彼は速く走れる。
He can run fast.
A noun meaning 'ability' or 'capability'. Often used in formal or abstract contexts, such as discussing skills, talents, or capacities. Can be combined with ある (to have) or 高い (high).
彼にはリーダーシップの能力がある。
He has leadership ability.
この仕事には高いコミュニケーション能力が求められる。
This job requires high communication ability.
The potential form of する (to do). It means 'can do' or 'is able to do'. Often used with nouns or as a standalone verb. It is also used in the pattern ことができる.
料理ができますか？
Can you cook?
彼は泳ぐことができる。
He can swim.
Refers to 'talent' or 'innate ability'. Often used for artistic, athletic, or intellectual gifts. More specific than 能力.
彼女は音楽の才能がある。
She has a talent for music.
Means 'real ability' or 'actual skill', often contrasted with theoretical knowledge or reputation. Used in contexts like exams, competitions, or job performance.
試験で実力を発揮した。
I demonstrated my true ability on the exam.
Referring to a developed skill or expertise in a particular area.
Means 'skill' or 'proficiency', often in a craft, sport, or practical activity. Implies a level of mastery gained through practice.
彼の料理の腕前は素晴らしい。
His cooking skills are wonderful.
Means 'technique' or 'technical skill'. Often used for mechanical, artistic, or professional skills.
Loanword from English, commonly used in business and IT contexts to mean 'skill' or 'competency'.
この仕事には特別なスキルが必要だ。
This job requires special skills.
Referring to a natural, often inborn, capacity to do something.
Means 'natural aptitude' or 'potential'. Often used for talents that can be developed.
彼女はピアニストとしての素質がある。
She has the potential to be a pianist.
Means 'innate nature' or 'natural gift'. Emphasizes something one is born with.
能力 (nouryoku) is a general term for ability or capability, often used in formal or abstract contexts. 才能 (sainou) specifically refers to talent or innate gift, often in arts or sports. スキル (sukiru) is a loanword used for practical, often job-related skills.
彼は語学の能力が高い。
He has high language ability.
彼女は絵の才能がある。
She has a talent for painting.
この仕事にはITスキルが必要だ。
This job requires IT skills.
Directly translating 'ability' as 能力 in every context can sound unnatural. In many cases, using the potential form of a verb or a more specific noun like 才能 or 腕前 is more appropriate. For example, 'He has the ability to sing' is more naturally expressed as 彼は歌が上手い (He is good at singing) or 彼は歌える (He can sing) rather than 彼は歌う能力がある.
彼女は複雑な問題を解決する能力がある。
She has the ability to solve complex problems.
英語力を向上させたい。
I want to improve my English ability.
彼はリーダーとして優れた能力を示した。
He showed great ability as a leader.
He has excellent skills.
彼の天性の才能には驚かされる。
I am amazed by his natural talent.