능력있다

The Korean word 능력있다 (neung-ryeok-it-da) is a powerful adjective that combines 능력 (ability/capability) and 있다 (to have/exist). When you say someone is 능력있다, you are essentially saying they are 'capable' or 'competent.'

Think of it as the ultimate compliment in a workplace or academic setting. It doesn't just mean you can do a task; it implies you have the talent and efficiency to do it well. Whether it's solving a complex math problem or managing a big project, this word highlights that the person has the 'stuff' to succeed.

The word is rooted in Sino-Korean characters (Hanja). 능 (能) refers to ability or talent, and 력 (力) refers to power or force. Together, 능력 means 'the power to perform.'

Historically, this term was used to describe people who held significant influence or skill within the royal court or scholarly circles. Over time, it evolved into a common descriptor for anyone who shows professional or personal competence in modern society.

You will hear this word most often in professional settings. You might say, 'He is a 능력있는 manager' (a capable manager). It is a positive, respectful term.

It is rarely used to describe oneself unless you are in a very confident, informal setting, as it can sound a bit boastful. Instead, it is best used to praise others for their hard work and results.

1. 능력있는 사람: A person of capability. 2. 능력을 발휘하다: To display one's ability. 3. 능력 밖의 일: Something beyond one's capability. 4. 능력을 인정받다: To be recognized for one's skills. 5. 능력의 한계: The limit of one's ability.

As an adjective, it conjugates based on the sentence ending. For example, 능력있어요 (polite) or 능력있는 (attributive form). The pronunciation requires a slight liaison between the 'k' sound and the 'i' sound.

It functions as a descriptive predicate. It does not have a plural form because it describes a quality, not a count of objects.