Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Ability" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "ability", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
能力
のうりょく (nōryoku)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
のうりょく
のうりょく (nōryoku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "ability" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 能力 and のうりょく.
In Japanese, 能力 (のうりょく (nōryoku)) is typically associated with "ability, capability, capacity" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Refers to one's skill, competence, or potential to do something. Often used with がある/ない.
On the other hand, のうりょく (のうりょく (nōryoku)) maps to "ability, capacity, capability" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to the skill, power, or capacity to do something effectively. Can be inherent or developed.. A literal translation of "ability" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "能力"
彼は高い語学能力を持っています。
He has a high language ability.
Bilingual Context for "のうりょく"
彼は高い言語能力を持っている。
He has high language ability.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は高い語学 ＿＿＿ を持っています。" (Meaning: "He has a high language ability.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "能力" fits here because it means "ability, capability, capacity" in the context of: "He has a high language ability.". "のうりょく" represents "ability, capacity, capability".