Explanation at your level:
Hello! じょうずな (jōzu na) is a word that means someone is good at something. Like, if you can draw a nice picture, you are 'jōzu'! Or if you can sing a song very well, you are 'jōzu'. It's a happy word to say someone can do something well. You can say 「上手な絵」 (jōzu na e) which means 'a good drawing'. It's a nice compliment!
The Japanese adjective じょうずな (jōzu na) is used to describe someone who is skilled or proficient at a particular activity. It's a very common and useful word for giving compliments. For instance, if your friend speaks Japanese well, you can say, 「あなたの日本語は上手です。」 (Anata no Nihongo wa jōzu desu.) which translates to 'Your Japanese is skillful.' It's important to note that 'jōzu' often follows the thing someone is good at, usually with the particle 'ga', like 「歌が上手」 (uta ga jōzu) meaning 'good at singing'.
じょうずな (jōzu na) is a versatile na-adjective in Japanese, meaning 'skillful,' 'adept,' or 'good at.' It's frequently used to praise someone's abilities in various fields, from languages and sports to arts and crafts. When describing a noun, it takes the form じょうずな (jōzu na), as in 「じょうずな料理人」 (jōzu na ryōrinin) - 'a skillful cook.' Alternatively, it can be used predicatively with 'da' or 'desu', often following the subject and the particle 'ga', like 「彼はテニスがじょうずだ。」 (Kare wa tenisu ga jōzu da.) - 'He is good at tennis.' This word is essential for everyday positive interactions.
The Japanese word じょうず (jōzu), when used as the na-adjective じょうずな (jōzu na), signifies a high level of competence or expertise. It's more than just 'good'; it implies a noticeable skill that stands out. While neutral in tone, it's predominantly used for positive appraisal. You might hear it in contexts like 「じょうずな交渉術」 (jōzu na kōshōjutsu) - 'skillful negotiation tactics,' or 「じょうずな説明」 (jōzu na setsumei) - 'a clear and skillful explanation.' It's important to distinguish it from へた (heta), which means 'unskillful.' Using じょうず (jōzu) appropriately demonstrates a nuanced understanding of complimenting abilities in Japanese.
じょうず (jōzu), particularly in its adjectival form じょうずな (jōzu na), denotes a level of skill that often implies natural talent or extensive practice. It can be used to describe not just personal abilities but also the quality of a product or outcome, such as 「じょうずな仕事ぶり」 (jōzu na shigotoburi) - 'skillful work performance.' In more advanced usage, it can sometimes carry a subtle implication of being 'clever' or 'artful,' depending on the context. While generally a direct compliment, overuse or inappropriate application might verge on sounding slightly simplistic in highly specialized or academic fields, where terms like 卓越した (takuetsu shita - outstanding) or 精巧な (seikō na - elaborate/ingenious) might be preferred for greater precision and formality.
The term じょうず (jōzu), functioning as the na-adjective じょうずな (jōzu na), represents a well-established descriptor of high competence in Japanese. Its etymological roots in Chinese 巧 (qiǎo) hint at an inherent cleverness or ingenuity. Beyond its common application in praising everyday skills like language proficiency or artistic creation, じょうず (jōzu) can subtly imply a mastery that appears effortless, bordering on artfulness. In literary or historical contexts, its usage might be contrasted with more profound concepts of mastery or genius. While generally a positive appraisal, its directness can sometimes be perceived as less sophisticated than nuanced expressions of expertise in highly formal or specialized discourse. Understanding its historical context and subtle connotations allows for its precise deployment in a wide array of communicative situations.
Word in 30 Seconds
- じょうずな (jōzu na) means 'skillful' or 'good at'.
- It's a common compliment for abilities in various activities.
- Use 'jōzu na' before a noun, and 'jōzu da/desu' at the end of a sentence.
- Avoid using it to praise yourself; show humility.
Hey there! Let's dive into the word じょうずな (jōzu na). This is a super handy Japanese adjective that means 'skillful' or 'good at' something. Think of it as a compliment when you see someone doing something really well, whether it's playing a musical instrument, speaking a language, or even cooking a delicious meal. It's all about acknowledging someone's talent and expertise!
When we use じょうず (jōzu) on its own, it often functions as a noun meaning 'skill' or 'proficiency'. However, when it's followed by 'な' (na), it becomes an adjective that directly modifies a noun. So, you'd say じょうずな人 (jōzu na hito), meaning 'a skillful person', or じょうずな絵 (jōzu na e), meaning 'a skillfully drawn picture'. It's a versatile word that pops up in everyday conversations quite a bit!
Remember, using じょうず (jōzu) is a positive way to describe someone's abilities. It’s like giving them a little nod of appreciation for their hard work and natural talent. So next time you see someone doing something impressive, you'll know just the word to use!
The word じょうず (jōzu) has an interesting origin that takes us back to classical Chinese. It comes from the Chinese word 巧 (qiǎo), which also means 'skillful', 'clever', or 'ingenious'. This character was adopted into Japanese, and over time, it evolved into the word we use today.
Interestingly, the original Chinese character 巧 (qiǎo) itself is thought to be a pictograph. It depicts a tool or a craftsman's hand working on something, symbolizing skill and dexterity. This visual connection helps us understand why 巧 (qiǎo) and subsequently じょうず (jōzu) became associated with being good at making or doing things.
The addition of 'な' (na) transforms じょうず (jōzu) into an adjective that can describe a noun. This grammatical function is common in Japanese, where certain nouns and na-adjectives behave similarly. The word has been in use in Japan for centuries, becoming a fundamental part of describing abilities and talents across various domains, from traditional arts to modern skills.
じょうずな (jōzu na) is a go-to adjective when you want to praise someone's skills. You can use it in almost any situation where someone demonstrates proficiency. For example, you might say: 「彼は日本語がじょうずだね。」(Kare wa Nihongo ga jōzu da ne.) - 'He's good at Japanese, isn't he?' or 「この料理、じょうずにつくれたね！」(Kono ryōri, jōzu ni tsukureta ne!) - 'You made this dish skillfully!'
Common collocations include pairing it with the activity someone is skilled at. You'll often hear it followed by particles like 'が' (ga) or 'は' (wa) before the adjective itself, like 「絵がじょうず」 (e ga jōzu) - 'good at drawing' or 「歌がじょうず」 (uta ga jōzu) - 'good at singing'. When used as a na-adjective, it directly precedes the noun: 「じょうずな話し手」 (jōzu na hanashite) - 'a skillful speaker'.
In terms of formality, じょうず (jōzu) is generally neutral and can be used in most social settings. However, in very formal or academic contexts, you might opt for more sophisticated terms like 熟練した (jukuren shita - experienced/skilled) or 卓越した (takuetsu shita - outstanding). But for everyday compliments, じょうず (jōzu) is perfect!
While じょうず (jōzu) itself is quite straightforward, it appears in phrases that highlight skill or the lack thereof. Here are a few common expressions:
- 下手な考え休むに似たり (Heta na kangae yasumu ni nitari): This idiom literally means 'Bad ideas are like taking a rest'. It implies that sometimes it's better to just do something, even if imperfectly, rather than overthinking and doing nothing. While 'heta' (unskillful) is used, the underlying idea contrasts with being 'jōzu'. Example: 「会議で発言しないのは下手な考え休むに似たりだ。」(Kaigi de hatsugen shinai no wa heta na kangae yasumu ni nitari da.) - 'Not speaking up in meetings is like a bad idea resembling rest.'
- 腕が立つ (Ude ga tatsu): This phrase means 'to be skilled' or 'to have strong arms/abilities'. It's a very common way to say someone is good at something, especially physical skills or crafts. Example: 「彼は料理の腕が立つ。」(Kare wa ryōri no ude ga tatsu.) - 'He is skilled at cooking.'
- 心得がある (Kokoro-e ga aru): This means 'to have knowledge or understanding (of something)', implying a certain level of skill or competence. Example: 「彼はこの仕事の心得がある。」(Kare wa kono shigoto no kokoro-e ga aru.) - 'He has the know-how for this job.'
- そつがない (Sotsu ga nai): This describes someone who is skillful and meticulous in everything they do, without any particular flaws. It implies a well-rounded competence. Example: 「彼女は何でもそつなくこなす。」(Kanojo wa nandemo sotsu naku konasu.) - 'She handles everything skillfully and without fault.'
- 一芸に秀でる (Ichigei ni hiideru): This means 'to excel in one particular skill or art'. It highlights a specialized talent. Example: 「彼は歌で一芸に秀でている。」(Kare wa uta de ichigei ni hiideru.) - 'He excels in singing.'
These expressions, while not always using じょうず (jōzu) directly, relate to the concept of skill and ability in various nuanced ways.
Pronunciation: The word じょうず (jōzu) is pronounced roughly as 'joh-zoo'. The 'ō' is a long 'o' sound, similar to the 'o' in 'go' but held slightly longer. The 'zu' sounds like the 'zoo' in 'zoo'. When used as an adjective, じょうずな (jōzu na), the 'na' is pronounced clearly. In Japanese, stress patterns are generally flatter than in English, so focus on clear articulation of each syllable.
IPA Transcription:
- UK: /d͡ʑɔː.d͡zɯ/
- US: /d͡ʒɔːr.d͡zu/ (Note: The 'r' sound is often subtle or absent in standard Japanese pronunciation, but can appear due to liaison.)
Grammar: じょうず (jōzu) is a na-adjective. This means it can function like a noun or an adjective. As a noun, it means 'skill' or 'proficiency'. As an adjective, it must be followed by 'な' (na) when modifying a noun. For example, 「じょうずな人」 (jōzu na hito) - 'a skillful person'. It can also be used predicatively with 'だ' (da) or 'です' (desu) at the end of a sentence: 「彼はじょうずだ。」 (Kare wa jōzu da.) - 'He is skillful.'
Rhyming Words: Finding perfect rhymes in Japanese can be tricky due to syllable structure. However, words ending in '-ōzu' or similar sounds might be considered near rhymes, such as 「とうず」 (tōzu - arrival) or words with similar vowel endings, though direct rhymes are uncommon.
Common Pronunciation Errors: Learners sometimes struggle with the long vowel 'ō' (お), pronouncing it too short. Also, differentiating between 'j' and 'z' sounds can be challenging. Ensure the 'ō' is elongated and the 'zu' sound is distinct.
Fun Fact
The Chinese character 巧 itself is believed to be a pictograph representing a tool or hand at work, symbolizing craftsmanship.
Pronunciation Guide
Starts with a 'j' sound, followed by a long 'o' sound (like 'go' but longer), then a 'dz' sound, ending with a 'u' sound.
Similar to UK, with a 'j' sound, long 'o', and 'dz-oo' ending. The 'r' sound might be subtle.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing the 'ō' too short.
- Confusing the 'j' and 'z' sounds.
- Adding an English 'r' sound inappropriately.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to read due to common usage and simple structure.
Requires understanding of na-adjectives and common sentence patterns.
Easy to pronounce and use in basic compliments.
Frequently heard in daily conversation.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Na-Adjectives
じょうず + な + Noun
Particles (が, は)
日本語 + が + じょうず
Verb Conjugation (Potential Form)
話せるようになる (hanaseru yō ni naru) - become able to speak
Examples by Level
This is a good drawing.
This / good / drawing.
'jōzu na' comes before the noun 'drawing'.
He is good at singing.
He / singing / good at.
'jōzu' often follows the thing you are good at, with the particle 'ga'.
You cook well!
You / cooking / good at!
Short, enthusiastic praise.
She plays piano well.
She / piano / plays / good at.
Describes a skill.
This is a skillful car.
This / skillful / car.
Describes the quality of an object.
He is a good student.
He / good / student.
'jōzu na' describes the person.
Your English is good.
Your / English / good.
Complimenting language ability.
This is a good job!
This / good / job!
Praising the quality of work.
彼は絵を描くのが上手です。
He / drawing pictures / is skillful.
Using 'ga' + verb stem + 'no' + 'jōzu desu'.
彼女は料理が上手な人です。
She / cooking / skillful / person / is.
'jōzu na' modifying 'hito' (person).
あなたの日本語はとても上手ですね。
Your / Japanese / very / skillful / isn't it?
Adding 'totemo' (very) for emphasis.
このゲームは君が一番上手だよ。
This game / you / the most skillful / is.
Using 'ichiban' (most) to indicate the best.
彼は話が上手だ。
He / talking / skillful / is.
Describes good communication skills.
その仕事は上手くできました。
That job / skillfully / was able to do.
Using the adverbial form 'umaku' (skillfully).
彼女はダンスが上手だ。
She / dancing / skillful / is.
Common collocation for performing arts.
それは上手なやり方ですね。
That / skillful / way / is.
'jōzu na' describing a method or approach.
彼は新しい言語を習得するのが非常に上手だ。
He / new languages / learning / very / skillful / is.
Using 'hijō ni' (extremely) for stronger praise.
彼女は複雑な問題を簡潔に説明するのに上手だ。
She / complex problems / simply / explaining / skillful / is.
Describes skill in communication and simplification.
この地域では、彼は最もチェスが上手いプレイヤーとして知られている。
This region / in / he / most / chess / skillful / player / as / is known.
Using 'umai' (a synonym for jōzu) and 'mottomo' (most).
彼の絵は、技術的に非常に上手だが、感情が少し足りない。
His paintings / technically / very / skillful / but / emotion / slightly / lacking.
Nuance: skill vs. emotional depth.
彼女の交渉術は目を見張るほど上手い。
Her negotiation skills / eye-opening / remarkably / skillful.
Using 'me o miharu hodo' (to the point of being eye-opening).
この彫刻は、素材の特性を活かした見事な出来栄えだ。
This sculpture / material / characteristics / utilizing / wonderful / result.
Implies skill through the result ('deki-bae').
彼はどんな状況でも冷静に対処するのに上手い。
He / any situation / calmly / dealing with / skillful.
Describes skill in handling pressure.
この作家の文章は、比喩表現が非常に上手だ。
This author's writing / metaphors / very / skillful.
Skill in literary devices.
その弁護士は、陪審員を説得する上で驚くほど上手な手腕を持っている。
That lawyer / jury / persuade / in / surprisingly / skillful / skill / has.
Describes professional skill in rhetoric.
彼女の計画立案能力は、困難な状況下でも常に期待を上回るほど上手だ。
Her planning ability / difficult situations / even / always / exceed expectations / to the point of being skillful.
Implies strategic thinking and consistent success.
彼は、相手の心理を巧みに突くことで、交渉を有利に進めるのが上手い。
He / opponent's psychology / skillfully / exploiting / by / negotiations / advantageously / advance / is skillful.
Focuses on psychological manipulation as a skill.
このシェフは、伝統的なレシピに革新的なひねりを加えるのが上手く、評価が高い。
This chef / traditional recipes / innovative twist / add / is skillful / reputation / high.
Skill in culinary innovation and fusion.
彼のスピーチは、聴衆の感情に訴えかける巧みな構成になっていた。
His speech / audience's emotions / appeal to / skillful / structure / was.
Skill in rhetoric and emotional connection.
彼女は、限られた資源の中で最大限の効果を引き出すことに長けている。
She / limited resources / within / maximum effect / draw out / is adept at.
Using 'nagakete iru' (is adept at), a synonym for high skill.
その批評家は、芸術作品の深層心理を読み解く鋭い洞察力を持っている。
That critic / artworks / deep psychology / decipher / sharp insight / has.
Skill in critical analysis and interpretation.
彼は、逆境を乗り越え、それを自身の成長の糧とするのが非常に上手い。
He / adversity / overcome / and / it / his own growth / nourishment / make / is very skillful.
Skill in personal resilience and growth mindset.
その外交官は、複雑な国際問題を巧みに仲介し、危機を回避する卓越した能力を示した。
That diplomat / complex international issues / skillfully / mediate / crises / avoid / outstanding ability / showed.
Using 'takuetsu shita nōryoku' (outstanding ability) alongside the implication of skill.
彼女の文学作品における比喩表現の巧みさは、読者に深い感動を与える。
Her literary works / in / metaphorical expressions / skillfulness / readers / deep emotion / gives.
Focuses on the artistic skill in literary devices.
彼は、表面的な事象の裏に隠された本質を見抜く、鋭敏な洞察力とそれを言語化する巧みな筆致を併せ持っている。
He / superficial events / behind hidden / essence / discern / keen insight / and / it / verbalize / skillful writing style / possesses.
Combines analytical skill ('dōtsuryoku') with expressive skill ('hitchi').
この建築家は、既存の環境と調和しつつも、革新的なデザインを創造する類稀な才能に恵まれている。
This architect / existing environment / harmonize / while / innovative designs / create / rare talent / is blessed with.
Highlights 'rui mare na sainō' (rare talent) in design.
彼女のリーダーシップは、単に指示を出すだけでなく、チームメンバーの潜在能力を最大限に引き出す術に長けている。
Her leadership / simply / instructions / give / not only / team members' potential / maximum / draw out / art/method / is adept at.
Skill in leadership and talent development ('jutsu ni nagakete iru').
その政治家は、聴衆の感情を揺さぶる雄弁さと、論理的な議論を展開する明晰さを兼ね備えた、稀有な弁士である。
That politician / audience's emotions / stir / eloquence / and / logical arguments / develop / clarity / possess / rare orator / is.
Juxtaposes emotional appeal ('yūsaburu yūben-sa') with logical skill ('meiseki-sa').
この音楽家は、古典的な旋律に現代的なエッセンスを融合させることで、独自の音楽世界を構築する手腕を持っている。
This musician / classical melodies / modern essence / fuse / by / unique musical world / construct / skill / has.
Skill in artistic fusion and creation.
彼の分析力は、複雑怪奇な事件の核心を、あたかも容易く見通すかのように、的確に言語化する。
His analytical ability / complex and bizarre incidents / core / as if / easily / see through / as / accurately / verbalize.
Skill in analysis and articulation, presented as effortless.
その老練な詐欺師は、人間の心理の最も深い部分に巧みに働きかけ、巧妙な手口で人々を欺くことに比類なき熟達を示した。
That seasoned con artist / human psychology / deepest parts / skillfully / appeal to / elaborate methods / with / people / deceive / in / unparalleled mastery / showed.
Uses 'hirui naki jukutatsu' (unparalleled mastery) to describe extreme skill, even in a negative context.
彼女の叙述における言語表現の洗練された技巧は、読者の想像力を掻き立て、作品に深遠な芸術的価値を与えている。
Her narrative / in / linguistic expression / refined technique / readers' imagination / stimulate / work / profound artistic value / gives.
Focuses on 'senren sareta gijutsu' (refined technique) in literary art.
この哲学者の思弁は、既存のパラダイムを巧みに解体し、新たな認識論的地平を切り開く、先駆的な営為と言えよう。
This philosopher's speculation / existing paradigms / skillfully / dismantle / and / new epistemological horizons / open up / pioneering endeavor / can be called.
Skill in deconstruction and paradigm shift in philosophy.
彼の指揮は、オーケストラの各奏者の能力を最大限に引き出し、楽曲の持つ潜在的な美質を余すところなく顕在化させる。
His conducting / orchestra's each musician's ability / maximum / draw out / musical piece's / inherent aesthetic qualities / without reserve / manifest.
Describes supreme skill in orchestration and interpretation.
彼女の戦略的思考は、複雑な状況下においても、常に複数の可能性を予見し、最も効果的な解決策を導き出すことに長けている。
Her strategic thinking / complex situations / under / even / always / multiple possibilities / foresee / and / most effective solutions / derive / is adept at.
Emphasizes foresight and strategic mastery ('nagakete iru').
その批評家は、現代美術の動向を的確に捉え、作品の芸術的価値だけでなく、その社会的・文化的含意までも深く読み解く洞察力に富む。
That critic / contemporary art trends / accurately / grasp / artworks' artistic value / not only / their social and cultural implications / even / deeply decipher / insight / rich.
Skill in deep analysis, encompassing artistic, social, and cultural dimensions.
この作家の散文は、一見平易でありながら、言葉の選び方、リズム、構造の全てにおいて計算され尽くした巧みさが光る。
This author's prose / at first glance simple / yet / word choice / rhythm / structure / in all / meticulously calculated / skillfulness / shines.
Skill in prose is described as meticulously calculated and multifaceted.
彼は、逆境を糧として自己変革を遂げるという、人間精神の最も困難な課題に取り組むことに、驚くべき精神的強靭さを示した。
He / adversity / nourishment / as / self-transformation / achieve / this / human spirit's / most difficult challenges / tackle / in / astonishing mental fortitude / showed.
Focuses on 'seishinteki kyōjinsa' (mental fortitude) in achieving self-transformation.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"下手な考え休むに似たり"
Overthinking can lead to inaction; sometimes it's better to just do something.
あれこれ悩むより、まずやってみよう。下手な考え休むに似たりだよ。
neutral"腕が立つ"
To be highly skilled or talented, especially in a practical sense.
彼は料理の腕が立つので、いつも美味しいものを作ってくれる。
neutral/casual"心得がある"
To have the necessary knowledge, understanding, or skill for a particular task or situation.
この仕事は経験者でないと、心得がないと難しいだろう。
neutral"そつがない"
To be skillful and meticulous in everything one does, lacking any particular flaws.
彼女は何事もそつなくこなすので、誰からも信頼されている。
neutral"一芸に秀でる"
To excel in one particular skill or art.
彼は歌で一芸に秀でているので、発表会で披露することになった。
neutral"手前味噌"
To praise one's own work or abilities (literally 'front miso'). Often used self-deprecatingly.
手前味噌で恐縮ですが、このケーキは自信作です。
casualEasily Confused
Both mean 'skillful' or 'good at'. 'Umai' is also used for 'delicious'.
'Jōzu' is generally more neutral and formal, while 'umai' can be more casual and has the additional meaning of 'delicious'.
彼は料理がじょうずだ。(He is skillful at cooking.) vs. この寿司はうまい！(This sushi is delicious!)
Both relate to being good at something.
'Tokui' refers to a specific strength or something one is proud of, often a personal forte. 'Jōzu' describes the skill level itself, which can be applied more broadly.
私の得意は数学です。(My strength is math.) vs. 彼は数学がじょうずだ。(He is skillful at math.)
Same pronunciation as うまい (umai), but written with kanji that emphasizes skill.
While pronounced the same and often interchangeable with うまい, using the kanji 上手い emphasizes the 'skillful' aspect more directly, aligning closely with じょうず.
彼は絵が上手い。(Kare wa e ga umai.) - He is skillful at drawing. (Kanji emphasizes skill)
Both refer to a high level of skill.
'Tatsujin' implies a true master or expert, often with years of dedication and profound knowledge. 'Jōzu' is a more general term for being good at something.
彼は剣道の達人だ。(Kare wa kendō no tatsujin da.) - He is a master of Kendo. (Implies supreme expertise)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + が + じょうず (da/desu)
彼女は歌がじょうずです。
Verb (stem) + の + が + じょうず (da/desu)
彼は話すのがじょうずだ。
じょうずな + Noun
それはじょうずな絵ですね。
じょうず (da/desu)
はい、じょうずです。
じょうず (na) + Noun + を + Verb
じょうずな手で、彼は問題を解決した。
Word Family
Nouns
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
Japanese culture values humility. Praising oneself can be seen as arrogant.
These are direct antonyms and crucial to distinguish for accurate meaning.
'Jōzu' is a na-adjective, requiring 'na' when directly modifying a noun.
Use words like 'かしこい' (kashikoi - clever) or '頭がいい' (atama ga ii - intelligent) for general intelligence.
'Jōzu' is versatile but can sometimes sound less formal or precise in advanced contexts.
Tips
Sound Association
Link 'jōzu' to 'Just do it!' – because when you're good at something (jōzu), you just do it confidently!
Compliment Power
Use 'jōzu' generously to praise others! Saying '〇〇 ga jōzu desu ne!' (You're good at 〇〇!) is a great way to build rapport.
Humility is Key
Remember, never call yourself 'jōzu'. If asked about your skills, say something like 'Mada mada desu' (I still have a long way to go) or 'Ganbatte imasu' (I'm doing my best).
Na-Adjective Rule
Always remember to add 'na' when 'jōzu' comes right before a noun it describes (e.g., jōzu na sushi chef).
Long 'O' Sound
Pay attention to the long 'ō' sound in 'jōzu'. It's like the 'o' in 'go' but held a bit longer. This distinction is important!
Don't Confuse with 'Heta'
Make sure you know the difference! 'Jōzu' = good, 'Heta' = bad. Mixing them up completely changes the meaning.
Chinese Roots
Did you know 'jōzu' comes from a Chinese character meaning 'skillful'? It shows how language evolves and borrows!
Contextual Learning
Instead of just memorizing 'jōzu', try to find examples of people being praised for specific skills (cooking, drawing, language) and note how 'jōzu' is used in those sentences.
Beyond People
You can describe skillfully made objects too! Think 'jōzu na tezukuri' (skillfully handmade) items.
Practice the 'Zu'
The 'zu' sound in 'jōzu' is like the start of 'zoo'. Practice saying 'jō-zu' clearly and distinctly.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'Jester' (sounds like 'jōzu') who is incredibly skillful at juggling and performing tricks.
Visual Association
Picture someone skillfully playing a musical instrument with great ease and flair.
Word Web
Challenge
Try describing three things you are good at in Japanese using 'jōzu'.
Word Origin
Chinese
Original meaning: 巧 (qiǎo) - skillful, clever, ingenious
Cultural Context
While 'jōzu' is a compliment, avoid using it for yourself. Praising others is generally well-received, but be mindful of context and relationship.
In English-speaking cultures, compliments about skill are common, but directness can vary. Using 'jōzu' is similar to saying 'You're very good at that!'
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Praising a friend's hobby
- 「〇〇、本当にじょうずだね！」(〇〇, hontō ni jōzu da ne!) - 〇〇, you're really good!
- 「その絵、すごくじょうず！」(Sono e, sugoku jōzu!) - That drawing is amazing!
- 「ピアノがじょうずで羨ましい。」(Piano ga jōzu de urayamashii.) - I envy how good you are at piano.
Discussing language learning
- 「あなたの日本語はとてもじょうずです。」(Anata no Nihongo wa totemo jōzu desu.) - Your Japanese is very good.
- 「もっとじょうずに話せるようになりたい。」(Motto jōzu ni hanaseru yō ni naritai.) - I want to become able to speak more skillfully.
- 「彼は英語がじょうずだ。」(Kare wa Eigo ga jōzu da.) - He is good at English.
Appreciating craftsmanship
- 「これはじょうずにつくられていますね。」(Kore wa jōzu ni tsukurarete imasu ne.) - This is skillfully made.
- 「職人さんのじょうずな仕事ぶりだ。」(Shokunin-san no jōzu na shigotoburi da.) - This is the skillful work of a craftsman.
- 「じょうずな彫刻だ。」(Jōzu na chōkoku da.) - It's a skillfully done sculpture.
Giving constructive feedback (gently)
- 「全体的にじょうずですが、もう少しここを練習するともっと良くなりますよ。」(Zentai-teki ni jōzu desu ga, mō sukoshi koko o renshū suru to motto yoku narimasu yo.) - Overall you're skillful, but if you practice this part a bit more, it will become even better.
- 「発想はいいですね。表現がもっとじょうずになるといいですね。」(Hassō wa ii desu ne. Hyōgen ga motto jōzu ni naru to ii desu ne.) - The idea is good. It would be nice if the expression became more skillful.
Conversation Starters
"「〇〇さんは、何が一番じょうずですか？」(〇〇-san wa, nani ga ichiban jōzu desu ka?) - What are you best at, 〇〇?"
"「この料理、誰が作ったんですか？すごくじょうずですね！」(Kono ryōri, dare ga tsukutta n desu ka? Sugoku jōzu desu ne!) - Who made this dish? It's really skillful!"
"「〇〇さんの日本語は本当にじょうずで、いつも感心しています。」(〇〇-san no Nihongo wa hontō ni jōzu de, itsumo kanshin shite imasu.) - Your Japanese is truly skillful, I'm always impressed."
"「子供の頃から何かじょうずなことはありましたか？」(Kodomo no koro kara nanika jōzu na koto wa arimashita ka?) - Was there anything you were good at since you were a child?"
"「この仕事、じょうずにできていますか？」(Kono shigoto, jōzu ni dekite imasu ka?) - Am I doing this job skillfully?"
Journal Prompts
Write about something you are proud of being skillful at. Use the word 'jōzu' (or 'umai') in your description.
Describe a time someone complimented your skills using 'jōzu'. How did it make you feel?
Think of a skill you want to improve. Write down steps you can take, and imagine yourself being 'jōzu' at it in the future.
Observe someone around you who is very skillful at something. Describe their actions and praise their 'jōzu-sa' (skillfulness).
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsThey are very similar and often interchangeable, both meaning 'skillful' or 'good at'. 'Umai' can sometimes feel slightly more casual or colloquial, and it also means 'delicious' when referring to food. 'Jōzu' is generally considered a safe and neutral choice.
It's generally not recommended. Japanese culture values modesty, so praising yourself directly with 'jōzu' can sound boastful. It's better to let others compliment you or use more humble phrasing if you need to talk about your abilities.
'Jōzu na' is used when you are directly modifying a noun (e.g., 'jōzu na hana' - skillful flower arrangement). 'Jōzu da/desu' is used predicatively at the end of a sentence (e.g., 'Kare wa jōzu da' - He is skillful).
No, you can use it to describe the quality of something made or performed skillfully, like 'jōzu na shigoto' (skillful work) or 'jōzu na sakuhin' (skillful work of art).
The most common opposite is 'heta' (下手), meaning 'unskillful' or 'bad at'. Another related word is 'bukiyō' (不器用), meaning 'clumsy'.
It can imply both. It generally signifies a high level of skill, whether that comes from natural talent, dedicated practice, or a combination of both.
You generally don't. 'Jōzu' specifically refers to skill in performing an action or mastering a subject. For 'clever' or 'smart', you would use words like 'kashikoi' (賢い) or 'atama ga ii' (頭がいい).
Yes, but it describes the skill involved in their creation or function, not the object itself having skill. For example, 'jōzu na machine' (a skillfully made machine) or 'jōzu na design' (skillful design).
Test Yourself
She is ______ at singing.
When used predicatively (at the end of the sentence), 'jōzu' is used, often with 'ga' before the activity.
Which word means 'unskillful'?
'Heta' is the direct antonym of 'jōzu'.
It is common and polite to say 'Watashi wa jōzu desu' (I am skillful) about yourself in Japanese.
It's generally considered immodest to praise yourself directly in Japanese culture.
Word
Meaning
Matching English terms to their Japanese equivalents and common phrases.
The correct sentence is 'He is good at Japanese.', translating to '彼は日本語が上手です。'
She is a ______ programmer.
'Jōzu na' is used here as a na-adjective modifying the noun 'programmer'.
Which phrase best describes someone with exceptional, perhaps innate, talent in a specific art form?
'Takuetsu shita' (outstanding) often implies a higher level of innate talent or achievement than 'jōzu na'.
Translate: 'Good drawing.'
'Jōzu na' precedes the noun 'e' (drawing).
彼は話が ______ 。
This structure 'X ga jōzu' is very common for skills. 'Umai' is also possible here.
Provide a synonym for 'jōzu' used in formal contexts to describe long-acquired expertise.
'Jukuren' specifically implies skill gained through extensive practice and experience.
Score: /10
Summary
Mastering 'jōzu na' unlocks a world of positive compliments and appreciation in Japanese conversations.
- じょうずな (jōzu na) means 'skillful' or 'good at'.
- It's a common compliment for abilities in various activities.
- Use 'jōzu na' before a noun, and 'jōzu da/desu' at the end of a sentence.
- Avoid using it to praise yourself; show humility.
Sound Association
Link 'jōzu' to 'Just do it!' – because when you're good at something (jōzu), you just do it confidently!
Compliment Power
Use 'jōzu' generously to praise others! Saying '〇〇 ga jōzu desu ne!' (You're good at 〇〇!) is a great way to build rapport.
Humility is Key
Remember, never call yourself 'jōzu'. If asked about your skills, say something like 'Mada mada desu' (I still have a long way to go) or 'Ganbatte imasu' (I'm doing my best).
Na-Adjective Rule
Always remember to add 'na' when 'jōzu' comes right before a noun it describes (e.g., jōzu na sushi chef).
Example
彼は日本語がじょうずです。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More general words
いくつか
B1An unspecified small number of things; some, a few.
ちょっと
A2A little; a moment; a bit. Small amount or short time.
すこし
A2A little; a few.
さっき
A2A little while ago; a short time past.
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
