B1 adjective Neutre #3,000 le plus courant 3 min de lecture

有能な

/jɯːno̞ːna̠/

Overview

The Japanese word '有能な' (yūnō na) is an adjective that translates to 'capable,' 'competent,' 'able,' or 'efficient' in English. It's used to describe a person, an organization, or even an object that possesses a high degree of skill, aptitude, or effectiveness in performing a particular task or function. The 'な' (na) at the end indicates that it is a 'na-adjective' (形容動詞 - keiyō-dōshi), which means it connects to a noun with 'な' (e.g., 有能な人 - yūnō na hito - a capable person) and can function adverbially by changing to 'に' (ni) (e.g., 有能に働く - yūnō ni hataraku - to work capably).

**Etymology and Components:**

  • 有 (yū): This kanji means 'to have,' 'to exist,' or 'to possess.' In this context, it implies possessing something desirable, like ability or talent.
  • 能 (nō): This kanji signifies 'ability,' 'talent,' 'skill,' or 'capacity.' It's a key component in many words related to capability, such as 才能 (sainō - talent) and 能力 (nōryoku - ability).

When combined, '有能' literally means 'having ability' or 'possessing talent.' The 'な' particle then transforms this into an adjective.

**Usage and Nuances:**

'有能な' is a generally positive and commendatory term. It suggests that someone not only has the potential but also demonstrates actual effectiveness in their work or role. It's often used in professional contexts, academic settings, or when discussing someone's general aptitude.

**Examples:**

  • 彼は有能なリーダーです。 (Kare wa yūnō na rīdā desu.) - He is a capable leader.
  • 彼女は新しいプロジェクトを有能にこなした。 (Kanojo wa atarashii purojekuto o yūnō ni konashita.) - She capably handled the new project.
  • その会社は有能な人材を求めている。 (Sono kaisha wa yūnō na jinzai o motomete iru.) - That company is looking for competent personnel.

**Comparison with Similar Words:**

While '有能な' conveys capability, there are other Japanese words with similar meanings but slightly different nuances:

  • できる (dekiru): This is a more general and common verb meaning 'to be able to' or 'can do.' It's less formal than '有能な' and can refer to a wider range of abilities.
  • Example: 彼は日本語ができる。 (Kare wa Nihongo ga dekiru.) - He can speak Japanese.
  • 優秀な (yūshū na): This means 'excellent,' 'superior,' or 'distinguished.' It implies a higher level of achievement or quality than '有能な.' Someone who is '有能な' might be '優秀な' as well, but '優秀な' emphasizes outstanding performance.
  • Example: 彼女は優秀な成績で卒業した。 (Kanojo wa yūshū na seiseki de sotsugyō shita.) - She graduated with excellent grades.
  • 器用な (kiyō na): This means 'skillful with one's hands,' 'dexterous,' or 'handy.' It often refers to practical skills rather than intellectual or managerial capabilities.
  • Example: 彼は器用なので、何でも自分で直せる。 (Kare wa kiyō nanode, nan demo jibun de naoseru.) - He is handy, so he can fix anything himself.

In summary, '有能な' is a versatile and positive adjective used to describe someone or something that demonstrates effective ability and competence, particularly in a professional or functional context. Its nuance lies in the possession and application of practical skills and intellect to achieve desired outcomes.

Exemples

1

彼女は本当に有能なプログラマーだ。

職場

She is a truly capable programmer.

2

彼は有能なリーダーとしてチームを引っ張っている。

ビジネス

He is leading the team as a competent leader.

3

有能な人材を求めています。

求人

We are looking for capable talent.

4

その有能な弁護士は、難しい案件を見事に解決した。

専門職

That competent lawyer brilliantly resolved the difficult case.

5

彼は若いが非常に有能な医師だ。

医療

He is a young but very competent doctor.

Collocations courantes

有能な人材
有能な人物
有能な部下
有能な弁護士

Souvent confondu avec

有能な vs 有能
な-adjective vs. noun
有能な vs 能力
Capable vs. ability

Modèles grammaticaux

有能な + Noun 〜は有能だ

Comment l'utiliser

Notes d'usage

'有能な' (yūnō na) is an adjective (specifically a 'na-adjective' or adjectival noun) used to describe someone or something as capable, competent, able, or efficient. It directly precedes the noun it modifies, for example, '有能な人' (yūnō na hito, a capable person) or '有能なチーム' (yūnō na chīmu, a competent team). It can also be used predicatively with 'です' (desu) or 'だ' (da), such as '彼は有能です' (kare wa yūnō desu, he is capable). The nuance is generally positive, highlighting a strong skill set and the ability to achieve tasks successfully. While primarily used for individuals, it can also describe organizations, systems, or tools that function effectively. It's a fairly common and straightforward word to use when praising someone's abilities.


Erreurs courantes

A common mistake for learners is confusing it with similar-sounding words or forgetting the '-na' ending when used attributively before a noun (e.g., 有能な人 - a capable person). Sometimes, learners might overuse it in situations where a simpler adjective like 'good' (良い - ii) or 'skillful' (上手 - jouzu) would be more natural. Another pitfall is not understanding the nuance; '有能な' implies a broader sense of capability and competence, often in a professional or intellectual context, rather than just being good at a specific task. Additionally, mispronouncing the long 'o' in 'NOH' can lead to misunderstandings, as it should be a sustained 'oh' sound.

Astuces

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Usage Tip

'有能な' (yūnōna) is a na-adjective. This means that when it directly modifies a noun, it needs the particle 'な' (na) after it. For example, '有能な人' (yūnōna hito) means 'a capable person'. When it acts as a predicate at the end of a sentence, it often drops the 'な'. For instance, '彼は有能だ' (Kare wa yūnō da) means 'He is capable.' Remember this grammatical structure to use it correctly in sentences.
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Common Mistake Alert

A common mistake learners make is forgetting to use the 'な' particle when '有能な' directly precedes a noun. Forgetting it makes the sentence grammatically incorrect. Another mistake is confusing it with similar-sounding words or words with slightly different nuances like 'できる' (dekiru - able/can do) or '優秀な' (yūshūna - excellent/superior). While '優秀な' often implies a higher degree of excellence, '有能な' focuses more on practical ability and competence. Pay attention to the subtle differences to choose the most appropriate word.
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Nuance and Context

'有能な' conveys a sense of practical ability, skill, and effectiveness in performing tasks or achieving goals. It suggests that someone is well-equipped to handle responsibilities and produce good results. The nuance is generally positive, highlighting a person's competence in their field or role. Consider the context: someone might be '有能な' in their job, in a specific sport, or even in a social setting. It's a versatile adjective that emphasizes the capacity to do something well. For example, '彼は有能なリーダーだ' (Kare wa yūnōna rīdā da) means 'He is a capable leader'.

Origine du mot

The Japanese word '有能な' (yūnō na) is an adjective meaning 'capable,' 'competent,' 'able,' or 'efficient.' It is formed from two kanji characters: '有' (yū), meaning 'to have,' 'to possess,' or 'to exist,' and '能' (nō), meaning 'ability,' 'talent,' 'skill,' or 'performance.' The character '有' (yū) has ancient origins, tracing back to Oracle Bone Script and Bronze Inscriptions in China, where it depicted a hand holding meat, symbolizing possession or existence through offerings. Over time, its meaning broadened to encompass existence and having. In Japanese, '有' is a fundamental character used in numerous words related to existence, possession, and presence. The character '能' (nō) also has deep historical roots. Its original form in ancient Chinese characters depicted a bear, which was considered a powerful and capable animal. This symbolism evolved to represent strength, ability, and talent. In Japan, '能' is central to the concept of skill and performance, notably in the context of 'Noh' theatre (能楽, nōgaku), which embodies highly refined and traditional performance arts. When combined, '有能' (yūnō) literally means 'having ability' or 'possessing talent.' The addition of 'な' (na) transforms it into a na-adjective, allowing it to modify nouns (e.g., 有能な人, yūnō na hito, 'a capable person'). The combination emphasizes the state of possessing significant capabilities. The concept of 'capability' and 'competence' is highly valued in Japanese culture, which often stresses diligence, skill development, and excellence in one's craft or profession. The word '有能な' reflects this cultural emphasis on acquired skills and inherent talents that contribute to one's effectiveness and success. In modern Japanese, '有能な' is a common and respectful way to describe someone who is highly skilled, effective, and performs well in their role, whether in professional, academic, or personal contexts. Its usage spans various situations, from business environments to daily conversations, to commend or acknowledge someone's proficiency.

Contexte culturel

In Japanese culture, competence and capability are highly valued, particularly in professional settings. The term '有能な' (yūnō na) often connotes a blend of skill, efficiency, and reliability. There's an underlying expectation for individuals to contribute effectively to their group or company, and being described as 'yūnō na' is a significant compliment. It can also imply a sense of responsibility and dedication to one's duties. In a society that often emphasizes continuous improvement and mastery, this word carries weight, suggesting that the person not only possesses the necessary abilities but also applies them diligently. It's frequently used to praise employees, leaders, or even students who demonstrate exceptional aptitude and performance in their respective fields.

Astuce mémo

Visualize a 'YUU-NOH-NA' person, perhaps a superhero, demonstrating their exceptional abilities. Break it down: 'YUU' (優) can sound like 'you' are capable. 'NOH' (能) sounds like 'know,' implying knowledge and skill. The 'NA' is an adjectival ending.

Questions fréquentes

4 questions
'有能な' (yūnō na) is a Japanese adjective that translates to 'capable,' 'competent,' 'able,' or 'efficient' in English. It is used to describe individuals or things that possess a high level of skill, ability, or proficiency in a particular area. When referring to a person, it suggests that they are effective in their work or duties, can handle various tasks well, and are generally seen as talented or proficient. It often implies a positive evaluation of someone's performance and their potential to achieve good results.
'有能な' is a na-adjective, which means it requires 'な' when directly modifying a noun. For example, '有能な人' (yūnō na hito) means 'a capable person.' When used as a predicate, it typically appears as '有能です' (yūnō desu) or '有能である' (yūnō de aru) for formality. It can also be used adverbially by changing 'な' to 'に,' as in '有能に働く' (yūnō ni hataraku), meaning 'to work competently.' It is a common and versatile term for praising someone's abilities.
Some synonyms for '有能な' include '優秀な' (yūshū na), which also means 'excellent' or 'superior' and often implies a higher degree of achievement or distinction. '器用な' (kiyō na) means 'skillful' or 'dexterous,' particularly in manual tasks or handling things. '才能のある' (sainō no aru) means 'talented' or 'gifted,' emphasizing natural ability. Each of these terms carries slightly different nuances, but all generally convey a sense of capability and proficiency.
Yes, common antonyms for '有能な' include '無能な' (munō na), which directly translates to 'incompetent' or 'incapable.' This term is used to describe a lack of ability or skill. Another antonym is '不器用な' (bukiyō na), meaning 'clumsy' or 'unskillful,' often specifically referring to a lack of manual dexterity or general awkwardness. Understanding these antonyms helps to further grasp the full scope of '有能な' and its positive connotations regarding ability and competence.

Teste-toi

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彼女はとても____な秘書だ。

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
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彼は____な経営者として知られている。

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
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そのチームには____な人材が揃っている。

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

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