A special skill is a learned ability that you can perform well enough to show others.
Word in 30 Seconds
- A special skill or talent you can demonstrate.
- Often used in resumes and self-introductions.
- Distinguished from hobbies by the level of proficiency.
概要
特技（とくぎ）は、他人と比較して優れている、あるいは特定の分野において習熟している技能を指します。単に「好きなこと」ではなく、「人に見せられるレベルの技術」というニュアンスが含まれます。履歴書や自己紹介の場でよく使われる言葉です。
類語との比較
「趣味」は自分が楽しむための活動であり、技術の高さは問われません。一方、「特技」は「できること」に焦点があり、ある程度の習熟度が必要です。「才能」は生まれ持った素質を指すことが多く、特技は努力や経験によって後天的に身につけたものという違いがあります。
Examples
私の特技は料理です。
everydayMy special skill is cooking.
面接で特技について聞かれました。
formalI was asked about my special skills during the interview.
何か特技ある？
informalDo you have any special skills?
彼は語学という特技を活かして働いている。
academicHe is working by utilizing his special skill in languages.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
特技は何ですか？
What is your special skill?
特技を身につける
to acquire a special skill
特技をアピールする
to highlight one's special skill
Often Confused With
Hobbies are things you enjoy doing in your free time, whereas special skills imply a level of proficiency or talent.
Talent often refers to an innate, natural gift, while special skills are usually acquired through practice.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
Use 'tokugi' when you want to highlight a specific ability you have mastered. It is commonly used in professional contexts like resumes or formal introductions. In casual settings, it is a great icebreaker.
Common Mistakes
People often mistake it for a hobby. Remember that while a hobby can be a special skill, a special skill must be something you are objectively good at. Don't confuse it with 'saino' which implies natural gift.
Tips
Focus on specific and demonstrable skills
When asked about your special skill, choose something concrete that you can explain or perform. Vague answers are less impressive than specific ones.
Don't confuse hobbies with special skills
While they overlap, ensure you emphasize the 'skill' aspect rather than just the 'fun' aspect when using the word 'tokugi'.
The importance of self-introduction in Japan
In Japanese culture, sharing your 'tokugi' is a standard way to build rapport during introductions at school or work.
Word Origin
Derived from 'Tokubetsu' (special) and 'Gijutsu/Gi' (technique/skill). It reflects the concept of a skill that stands out as special.
Cultural Context
In Japan, asking about 'tokugi' is a way to understand someone's character and dedication. It is a staple in self-introduction rituals from school to the workplace.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Tokugi' as 'Tokubetsu' (special) + 'Gi' (skill). It is a special skill you have inside you.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions趣味は自分が楽しむための活動を指し、上達の度合いは問いません。特技は人よりも優れている技能を指し、他人に見せられるレベルであることが前提となります。
日常的に行っている家事や、小さな工夫でも構いません。例えば「整理整頓」や「早起き」など、継続して行っていることを具体的に伝えると良いでしょう。
基本的には入れ替えられません。才能は生まれ持った素質を指すことが多く、特技は努力して身につけた技術を指すため、文脈を考慮する必要があります。
はい、もちろんです。人よりも優れた記録や技術を持っているならば、スポーツは特技として非常に適した回答になります。
Test Yourself
私の___は、ピアノを弾くことです。
人に見せられる技能であるため、ここでは特技が最適です。
特技とはどのようなものですか？
特技は習熟した技術や能力を指します。
（披露する / 特技 / 私は / を / します）
日本語の基本語順である「主語＋目的語＋動詞」に従っています。
Score: /3
Summary
A special skill is a learned ability that you can perform well enough to show others.
- A special skill or talent you can demonstrate.
- Often used in resumes and self-introductions.
- Distinguished from hobbies by the level of proficiency.
Focus on specific and demonstrable skills
When asked about your special skill, choose something concrete that you can explain or perform. Vague answers are less impressive than specific ones.
Don't confuse hobbies with special skills
While they overlap, ensure you emphasize the 'skill' aspect rather than just the 'fun' aspect when using the word 'tokugi'.
The importance of self-introduction in Japan
In Japanese culture, sharing your 'tokugi' is a standard way to build rapport during introductions at school or work.
Examples
4 of 4私の特技は料理です。
My special skill is cooking.
面接で特技について聞かれました。
I was asked about my special skills during the interview.
何か特技ある？
Do you have any special skills?
彼は語学という特技を活かして働いている。
He is working by utilizing his special skill in languages.
Related Content
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
More general words
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.
ごろ
A2About, approximately (time).
うえ
A2At a higher position than.
絶対
B1Absolutely; definitely; never.
絶対に
B1Absolutely; definitely.
