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능력없다

A2 adjective #7,000 最常用 9分钟阅读

능력없다

前7,000

开始练习例句笔记与提示 능력없다 30秒了解

解析 능력없다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should understand '능력없다' as a simple combination of 'ability' (능력) and 'not have' (없다). Think of it as 'I can't do it' but in a more descriptive adjective form. At this stage, you don't need to worry about the deep social insults; just recognize that it means someone is not able to do something well. It is like saying 'not good' but for a person's skill. You will mostly see it in very simple sentences describing people in stories or basic workplace scenarios. Focus on the basic conjugation: '능력없어요' (polite) and '능력없어' (informal). Remember that it is the opposite of '능력있어요'. Even at A1, you can use it to humbly say you aren't ready for a big task, though '잘 못해요' is more common for beginners. Understanding this word helps you see how Korean builds complex meanings by putting nouns and '있다/없다' together. It's a fundamental pattern in the language.

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At the A2 level, you begin to see the difference between 'doing something poorly' (못하다) and 'being incapable' (능력없다). A2 learners should be able to use '능력없는' to modify nouns, such as '능력없는 사람' (an incapable person). You will encounter this word in basic office contexts or in dramas when characters are being criticized. You should understand that this word is quite strong and should be used carefully. It's not just about a one-time mistake; it describes a person's general state. You will also learn that '능력' often implies 'money' or 'career success' in Korean culture. So, when someone says '그는 능력없어', they might mean he doesn't have a good job. You should practice using this word with the correct particles, like '-이/가' for the subject. For example, '제 친구가 능력없어요' (My friend is incapable).

By the B1 level, you should understand the social implications of '능력없다' in Korean society. This word is often linked to the concept of 'Spec' (qualifications) and social competition. B1 learners should be able to recognize the word in various forms, including the noun '무능' (incompetence) which often appears in news or formal settings. You should be able to use the word to describe why a project failed or why a certain leader is not liked. You will also start to notice the word in more complex sentence structures, such as '능력없다고 무시당하다' (to be looked down upon for being incompetent). It's important to start distinguishing '능력없다' from '실력 없다' (lacking skill) and '소질 없다' (lacking talent). '능력없다' is the most all-encompassing and potentially hurtful of the three.

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At the B2 level, you should be able to use '능력없다' to discuss abstract concepts like 'political incompetence' or 'systemic failure'. You should understand the nuances of how this word is used in workplace politics and workplace harassment (갑질) contexts. You can use it in more sophisticated grammatical structures, such as '능력없음에도 불구하고' (despite being incompetent). You should also be aware of the emotional weight the word carries in romantic relationships, where it often serves as a euphemism for financial instability. B2 learners should be able to debate the merits of a '능력 위주 사회' (merit-based society) and use '능력없다' to describe the downsides of such a system. You should also be comfortable using the word in its various conjugated forms and understanding when to substitute it with more formal or polite alternatives.

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At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the sociolinguistic impact of '능력없다'. You can analyze how the word is used in literature and high-level journalism to critique societal structures. You understand the historical context of how 'neung-nyeok' became such a central value in post-war Korea. You can distinguish between '능력없다' and more obscure terms like '수완이 없다' (lacking savvy) or '미흡하다' (to be insufficient/inadequate). You can use the word in complex rhetorical ways, such as in satirical contexts or when discussing philosophical concepts of human capacity. Your usage of the word is precise, ensuring that you only use it when the harshness is intended, and you are adept at using euphemisms when a softer touch is required. You can also recognize the word in its classical or highly formal variations in legal or administrative documents.

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At the C2 level, your mastery of '능력없다' is indistinguishable from a native speaker. You understand the subtle irony when a highly successful person calls themselves '능력없다' (humble bragging or deep imposter syndrome). You can interpret the word's use in ancient texts or modern poetry, where it might take on a more existential meaning regarding the human condition and our inherent limitations. You are fully aware of the legal ramifications of calling someone '능력없다' in a public forum (defamation/insult laws in Korea). You can navigate the most sensitive social situations using this word or its many alternatives with perfect precision. You understand the word not just as a descriptor of skill, but as a reflection of the entire Korean cultural ethos regarding achievement, duty, and social worth.

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开始练习例句笔记与提示

능력없다 30秒了解

능력없다 means being incompetent or lacking the capacity to perform a role effectively.
It is a strong, often negative word used in workplaces and personal relationships.
In Korea, it frequently implies a lack of financial earning power or career success.
It is the direct opposite of 능력있다 (to be capable/talented).

The Korean adjective 능력없다 (neung-nyeok-eop-da) is a compound term derived from the noun 능력 (neung-nyeok), meaning 'ability' or 'capability', and the adjective 없다 (eop-da), meaning 'to not have' or 'to be non-existent'. When combined, it creates a powerful and often stinging descriptor for someone who lacks the necessary skills, resources, or competence to perform a task or fulfill a role. In the hyper-competitive landscape of South Korean society, where 'spec' (specifications/qualifications) often defines one's social standing, being labeled as 능력없다 carries significant weight. It isn't just about a temporary lack of skill; it often implies a fundamental deficiency in one's capacity to succeed in a given environment.

Core Meaning: To be incompetent, incapable, or powerless in a specific domain or in general life management. It suggests a lack of the 'tools' required for success.
Social Context: Frequently used in workplace settings to describe underperforming employees, or in interpersonal relationships where one partner feels the other cannot provide financial or emotional stability.

그 사람은 일 처리가 너무 느리고 능력없다는 소리를 자주 듣는다.
— Translation: That person handles work so slowly and often hears that they are incompetent.

The usage of this word can range from a harsh self-critique to a devastating insult. When used in the first person, such as '나는 참 능력없는 사람이다' (I am truly an incapable person), it expresses deep self-deprecation or a sense of helplessness. Conversely, when directed at others, it functions as a critique of their professional or personal worth. It is important to distinguish this from '못하다' (to do poorly), which focuses on the action, whereas '능력없다' focuses on the inherent lack of capacity within the person.

Furthermore, the term can be applied to institutions or governments. For instance, a '능력없는 정부' (an incompetent government) is one that fails to solve systemic problems or respond effectively to crises. In this broader sense, the word highlights a failure of systemic function and the inability to produce results. It is a word that demands results; without results, one is deemed to have no 'neung-nyeok'.

Antonym Contrast: The opposite is '능력있다' (to be capable/talented). This is one of the highest compliments in professional Korean society, implying one is 'capable' of handling anything thrown their way.

돈만 밝히고 실질적인 능력없는 상사 밑에서 일하기는 정말 힘들다.
— Translation: It's really hard to work under a boss who only cares about money and has no actual ability.

Using 능력없다 correctly requires an understanding of Korean adjective conjugation and the subtle ways it modifies nouns. Because it ends in 없다, it follows the same conjugation rules as other 'existence' adjectives like 재미없다 (uninteresting) or 맛없다 (tasteless). It is most commonly used as a predicate at the end of a sentence or as an attributive adjective modifying a noun that follows it.

As a Predicate (Ending a sentence): When you want to state that someone is incapable.
- Informal: 그는 정말 능력없어. (He's really incompetent.)
- Polite: 저는 이 일을 하기에는 능력없습니다. (I am incapable of doing this work.)
As a Modifier (Before a noun): To describe a person or entity directly, use the form 능력없는.
- 능력없는 직원 (An incompetent employee)
- 능력없는 부모 (An incapable parent)

자신이 능력없다고 느낄 때가 가장 비참하다.
— Translation: The moment you feel like you are incapable is the most miserable.

One must be careful with the particles used with 능력없다. Usually, the subject of the incompetence is marked with -이/가 or -은/는. However, if you are specifying the *area* in which someone lacks ability, you use the particle -에 or -에서. For example, '그는 수학에 능력없다' (He has no ability in math). However, it is more natural to say '수학에 소질이 없다' for specific subjects, while 능력없다 is reserved for broader, more impactful life or professional skills.

In formal writing, such as reports or academic papers, you might see the noun form 무능 (muneung) used instead. For instance, '행정의 무능' (The incompetence of the administration). 능력없다 is the more verbal, descriptive way to express this in daily conversation and literature. It allows for more emotional nuance, especially when combined with adverbs like '정말' (really), '전혀' (at all), or '워낙' (so/originally).

그 회사는 능력없는 경영진 때문에 파산 위기에 처했다.
— Translation: That company is on the verge of bankruptcy because of its incompetent management.

Common Verb Patterns: 1. [Subject] + 능력없다 (Subject is incompetent)
2. [Noun] + -은/는 능력없는 [Noun]이다 (Noun is an incompetent Noun)
3. 능력없다고 생각하다 (To think someone is incompetent)

The term 능력없다 is a staple in Korean media, particularly in office dramas (K-Office dramas) and family melodramas. In these contexts, it serves as a central conflict point. You will hear it in the harsh rebukes of a manager to a subordinate, or in the tearful arguments between a couple struggling with financial difficulties. It reflects the societal pressure to be 'capable' (능력 있는).

In the Workplace: Managers often use this to criticize employees who fail to meet targets. You might hear: "이렇게 능력없어서 어디에 쓰겠나?" (If you're this incompetent, where can I use you?). It's a very harsh thing to say in a professional setting, often bordering on workplace harassment (갑질).
In Family/Relationships: A common trope in dramas involves a mother-in-law looking down on a son-in-law because he is '능력없다' (meaning he doesn't earn enough money). This usage highlights the link between 'ability' and 'economic status' in Korea.

"너처럼 능력없는 놈이 내 딸을 행복하게 해줄 수 있겠어?"
— Translation: "Can an incompetent guy like you really make my daughter happy?" (Common drama line)

In news broadcasts, the word is used to critique political figures or government agencies. When a policy fails or a disaster is poorly managed, the headlines will often scream about the '능력없는 대처' (incompetent response). Here, the word takes on a more formal and objective tone, focusing on the failure of duty rather than personal insult. It is a tool for public accountability.

Lastly, you will hear this word in self-help contexts. Motivational speakers might talk about the fear of being '능력없는 사람' and how to overcome it by building new skills. It is the bogeyman of the modern Korean worker—the fear that no matter how hard you work, you might still be fundamentally 'incapable' in the eyes of the market.

요즘 세상은 능력없다는 낙인이 찍히면 살아남기 힘들다.
— Translation: In today's world, it's hard to survive if you're branded as incompetent.

Learning to use 능력없다 requires distinguishing it from several similar words. A common mistake for English speakers is using it every time they want to say 'cannot' or 'bad at'. However, Korean has more specific words for those situations. Using the wrong one can change your sentence from a simple observation to a harsh character judgment.

Mistake 1: Confusing with '못하다' (Mot-hada): '못하다' means you are bad at a specific skill (e.g., 노래를 못하다 - bad at singing). '능력없다' is much broader and more personal. If you say someone is '노래에 능력없다', it sounds like they are biologically or fundamentally incapable of ever singing, which is overly dramatic.
Mistake 2: Confusing with '불가능하다' (Bul-ganeung-hada): '불가능하다' means 'impossible' regarding a situation or task. '능력없다' refers to the person's internal lack. You cannot say a 'task is 능력없다'. Only a person or an organization can be 능력없다.

❌ 이 일은 능력없다. (This work is incompetent - INCORRECT)
✅ 이 일은 불가능하다. (This work is impossible - CORRECT)

Another mistake is the level of formality. Calling someone '능력없다' to their face is extremely rude and confrontational. Unless you are a superior giving a very harsh performance review, or in a heated personal argument, it's better to use softer expressions like '부족하다' (to be lacking) or '서툴다' (to be unskilled/clumsy). Using 능력없다 casually can burn bridges.

Lastly, learners often forget that 능력없다 is an adjective. They might try to use it with object markers like 능력을 없다. This is grammatically incorrect. It must be 능력이 없다 (to not have ability) or the compound adjective 능력없다. Pay close attention to the spacing; 능력 없다 (with a space) is a phrase, while 능력없다 (no space) is technically treated as a single word in many contexts, though both are understood.

❌ 그는 요리를 능력없다.
✅ 그는 요리 솜씨가 없다 (He has no skill in cooking) or 요리를 못한다.

The Korean language offers a variety of ways to describe incompetence, each with its own nuance. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are talking about a lack of natural talent, a lack of learned skill, or a general lack of power.

1. 무능하다 (Muneung-hada): This is the Sino-Korean equivalent (無能). It is more formal and clinical than '능력없다'. It is often used in newspapers or formal evaluations. It sounds more like a permanent trait of 'incompetence'.
2. 실력 없다 (Sillyeok eopda): '실력' refers to actual, demonstrated skill or proficiency. If you say someone has no 'sillyeok', you are saying they haven't studied or practiced enough to be good. It is less of a personal attack than '능력없다'.
3. 수완이 없다 (Suwan-i eopda): This specifically refers to 'tact' or 'business savvy'. Someone might be smart (능력 있다) but have no 'suwan' (not know how to handle people or deals effectively).

"그는 공부는 잘하지만 세상 살아가는 수완이 없다."
— Translation: "He is good at studying but has no savvy for living in the world."

Comparatively, 능력없다 is the most general and emotionally charged. It covers everything from financial power to social standing to professional skill. If you want to be more specific and less hurtful, you might use '재능이 없다' (to have no talent) for artistic pursuits, or '자격이 없다' (to not be qualified/have no right) for positions of authority.

In slang, younger generations might use terms like '똥손' (poop hands) for someone who is 'incapable' of making or fixing things, or '무쓸모' (useless). However, 능력없다 remains the standard way to express a lack of competence in any serious discussion about life or work. It is a word that strikes at the heart of the modern achievement-oriented identity.

진정으로 능력없는 사람은 배우려 하지 않는 사람이다.
— Translation: A truly incompetent person is one who does not try to learn.

How Formal Is It?

趣味小知识

In ancient Hanja, '能' (Neung) originally depicted a bear, symbolizing strength and the 'ability' to survive and hunt. In modern Korean, it has evolved into a highly socialized term for career and financial success.

发音指南

UK /nɯŋ.ɲjʌk.ʌp.t͈a/

US /nʊŋ.njʌk.ʌp.tɑ/

The primary stress is on the first syllable 'Neung', with a secondary emphasis on the start of the second word 'Eop'.

押韵词

기운없다 (gi-un-eop-da) 재미없다 (jae-mi-eop-da) 어이없다 (eo-i-eop-da) 상관없다 (sang-gwan-eop-da) 근거없다 (geun-geo-eop-da) 가차없다 (ga-cha-eop-da) 끝도없다 (kkeut-do-eop-da) 맥없다 (maek-eop-da)

常见错误

Pronouncing it as 'Neung-yeok' instead of 'Neung-nyeok' (forgetting the 'n' insertion).
Over-pronouncing the final 'da' as a soft 'd' instead of a tensed 't' sound.
Failing to nasalize the 'k' in 'neung-nyeok' when speaking quickly.
Separating 'neung-nyeok' and 'eop-da' with too long a pause.
Pronouncing 'eop' with a full 'b' sound instead of a stopped 'p'.

难度评级

阅读 2/5

Easy to recognize as it combines two common words.

写作 3/5

Requires correct conjugation and understanding of noun modification.

口语 4/5

Pronunciation (nasalization) can be tricky for beginners.

听力 3/5

Common in dramas and news, usually easy to catch.

接下来学什么

前置知识

능력 (Ability) 없다 (To not have) 있다 (To have) 사람 (Person) 일 (Work)

接下来学习

유능하다 (To be competent) 무능하다 (To be incompetent) 성공하다 (To succeed) 실패하다 (To fail) 전문가 (Expert)

高级

개연성 (Probability) 수완 (Savvy/Tact) 역량 (Capability/Competence) 자질 (Qualities/Talent)

需要掌握的语法

Adjective Noun Modification (-ㄴ/은)

능력없는 사람 (An incapable person)

Nasalization (ㅁ/ㄴ after ㄱ/ㄷ/ㅂ)

능력 [능녁] (Pronunciation rule)

The particle '-이/가' with '없다'

그는 능력이 없다.

Indirect Quotation (-다고 하다)

그는 자신이 능력없다고 말했다.

Contrastive Usage (-지만)

착하지만 능력없다.

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按水平分级的例句

저는 요리에 능력없어요.

I have no ability in cooking.

능력없다 is conjugated in the polite style (-어요).

그 남자는 능력없어.

That man is incapable.

Informal ending (-어).

우리는 능력없는 팀이에요.

We are an incapable team.

능력없는 modifies the noun 팀 (team).

돈이 없으면 능력없다고 생각해요.

If you don't have money, people think you are incapable.

Contains a conditional -면 (if).

능력없는 사람은 싫어요.

I don't like incapable people.

능력없는 as a noun modifier.

그는 정말 능력없습니다.

He is truly incapable.

Formal polite ending (-습니다).

능력없다니, 그게 무슨 말이야?

Incapable? What do you mean by that?

The ending -다니 expresses surprise at a statement.

공부를 안 하면 능력없게 돼요.

If you don't study, you become incapable.

-게 되다 means 'to become/end up'.

능력없는 상사 때문에 힘들어요.

It's hard because of an incompetent boss.

Noun modification: 능력없는 + 상사 (boss).

자신이 능력없다고 느끼지 마세요.

Don't feel like you are incapable.

-지 마세요 (don't) used with feeling incompetent.

그는 일은 잘하지만 돈 버는 능력은 없어요.

He works well but has no ability to make money.

Separated phrase: 능력은 없어요 (has no ability).

능력없는 정부는 국민이 힘들게 해요.

An incompetent government makes the people suffer.

Causative structure using -게 하다.

저는 이 기계를 고칠 능력이 없어요.

I don't have the ability to fix this machine.

Noun + particle -이/가 + 없다.

능력없는 남편을 둔 아내의 고민.

The worries of a wife with an incompetent husband.

-ㄴ/은 둔 (having/possessing) modifying the wife.

그는 말만 잘하고 실제로는 능력없다.

He's just good at talking and actually has no ability.

Contrast using -만 (only) and -고 (and).

회사에서 능력없는 사람으로 찍혔어요.

I've been branded as an incompetent person at the company.

-로 찍히다 (to be branded/labeled as).

능력없는 지도자는 조직을 망칩니다.

An incompetent leader ruins an organization.

Formal statement on leadership.

사회는 능력없는 사람들에게 냉정합니다.

Society is cold to people who lack ability.

Dative particle -에게 (to/towards).

능력없음을 인정하는 것은 용기가 필요하다.

Admitting one's lack of ability requires courage.

Nominalization using -음 (능력없음).

그는 스스로를 능력없다고 자책했다.

He blamed himself for being incompetent.

Indirect quotation -다고 followed by 자책하다.

능력없는 부모 밑에서 자란 아이들.

Children raised under incapable parents.

Metaphorical use of 'under' (밑에서).

능력없다는 이유로 승진에서 탈락했다.

He was excluded from promotion on the grounds of being incompetent.

-다는 이유로 (for the reason that...).

아무리 노력해도 능력없으면 소용없다.

No matter how hard you try, if you have no ability, it's useless.

아무리 -해도 (no matter how much...).

그녀는 능력없는 남자와 결혼하고 싶지 않았다.

She didn't want to marry an incompetent man.

Desire ending -고 싶지 않다 (negative).

능력없는 행정 때문에 피해가 커졌다.

The damage increased due to incompetent administration.

Abstract noun modification (행정 - administration).

그는 능력없으면서도 자존심만 강하다.

He is incompetent, yet his pride is strong.

-면서도 (while/even though) expresses contrast.

능력없는 직원을 해고하는 것은 정당한가?

Is it justifiable to fire an incompetent employee?

Nominalized question using -는 것은 ... -가?

자본주의 사회에서 능력없다는 것은 죄악인가?

Is being incompetent a sin in a capitalist society?

Rhetorical question structure.

능력없는 관리자가 팀의 사기를 저하시킨다.

An incompetent manager lowers the morale of the team.

Sino-Korean verb 저하시키다 (to lower/degrade).

능력없다고 무시당하는 기분은 정말 비참하다.

The feeling of being ignored for being incompetent is truly miserable.

Passive form 무시당하다 (to be ignored/looked down on).

능력없는 사람도 행복할 권리가 있다.

Even incompetent people have the right to be happy.

Focus particle -도 (even/also).

외모는 뛰어나지만 능력없는 연예인들.

Celebrities who have great looks but no ability.

Contrast between 외모 (looks) and 능력 (ability).

능력없는 관료주의가 국가 발전을 가로막는다.

Incompetent bureaucracy hinders national development.

Academic term 관료주의 (bureaucracy).

그의 능력없음은 이미 업계에 정평이 나 있다.

His incompetence is already well-known in the industry.

Idiom 정평이 나 있다 (to be well-established/well-known).

능력없는 이들의 목소리가 묻히는 사회 구조.

A social structure where the voices of the incapable are buried.

Passive verb 묻히다 (to be buried).

능력없다는 프레임을 씌워 경쟁자를 제거했다.

They eliminated the competitor by framing them as incompetent.

Modern loanword 프레임 (frame) + 씌우다 (to put on).

능력없는 자의 변명은 언제나 구차하다.

The excuses of an incompetent person are always pathetic.

Adjective 구차하다 (pathetic/lame).

능력없음이 탄로 날까 봐 전전긍긍하고 있다.

He is on pins and needles, fearing his incompetence will be revealed.

Idiom 전전긍긍하다 (to be very nervous/trembling).

능력없는 부모의 대물림되는 가난.

Poverty passed down from incapable parents.

Complex noun phrase 대물림되는 (passed down).

능력없는 리더십은 위기 상황에서 여실히 드러난다.

Incompetent leadership is clearly revealed in crisis situations.

Adverb 여실히 (clearly/vividly).

능력없는 자가 권력을 쥐었을 때의 참혹한 결과.

The horrific consequences when an incompetent person holds power.

Strong adjective 참혹하다 (horrific/atrocious).

인간은 본질적으로 능력없는 존재인가 하는 철학적 의문.

The philosophical question of whether humans are inherently incapable beings.

Philosophical inquiry structure.

능력없음을 미화하는 세태를 비판하다.

To criticize the social trend of glorifying incompetence.

Verb 미화하다 (to beautify/glorify).

능력없는 자들의 연대가 기득권층을 위협하고 있다.

The solidarity of the 'incapable' is threatening the established classes.

Sociopolitical terms 연대 (solidarity) and 기득권층 (vested interests).

능력없는 행정의 이면에는 부패가 자리 잡고 있었다.

Behind the incompetent administration lay deep-seated corruption.

Metaphorical 이면 (the back side/behind).

능력없는 지식인의 공허한 외침은 울림이 없다.

The empty shouts of an incompetent intellectual have no resonance.

Literary terms 공허한 (empty) and 울림 (resonance).

능력없는 자를 도태시키는 자연의 섭리.

The providence of nature that eliminates the incapable.

Providence (섭리) and elimination (도태).

능력없음의 굴레에서 벗어나기 위한 처절한 몸부림.

A desperate struggle to break free from the shackles of incompetence.

Metaphorical 굴레 (shackles/yoke).

常见搭配

능력없는 상사

능력없는 정부

능력없는 남편

능력없는 직원

경제적 능력없다

능력없는 지도자

능력없는 부모

능력없음을 한탄하다

능력없다고 무시하다

능력없는 척하다

常用短语

능력이 안 되다

— To not be up to the task or to not have the means.

그 차를 사기에는 능력이 안 돼요.

무능력자

— An incompetent person; someone with no ability.

그는 사회에서 무능력자로 낙인찍혔다.

능력 밖이다

— To be beyond one's capability.

이 문제는 제 능력 밖입니다.

능력을 키우다

— To develop one's ability.

능력없는 사람이 되지 않으려면 능력을 키워야 한다.

능력을 발휘하다

— To demonstrate/show one's ability.

능력없는 줄 알았는데 실전에서 능력을 발휘했다.

능력이 출중하다

— To have outstanding ability (antonym phrase).

그녀는 모든 면에서 능력이 출중하다.

능력 위주

— Ability-centered (merit-based).

우리 회사는 능력 위주로 사람을 뽑는다.

능력을 인정받다

— To have one's ability recognized.

능력없는 사람도 언젠가는 능력을 인정받을 수 있다.

능력이 닿는 데까지

— To the best of one's ability.

능력이 닿는 데까지 도와드리겠습니다.

능력 차이

— Difference in ability.

두 사람의 능력 차이가 너무 크다.

容易混淆的词

능력없다 vs 못하다

Focuses on the performance of a specific action, not the person's general capacity.

능력없다 vs 불가능하다

Describes a situation that cannot happen, not a person's skill.

능력없다 vs 서툴다

Implies clumsiness or being a beginner, which is less permanent than being 'incapable'.

习语与表达

"우물 안 개구리"

— A frog in a well; someone who is 'incapable' because of their narrow perspective.

그는 우물 안 개구리라 큰 일을 하기엔 능력없다.

Common

"함량 미달"

— Below the required standard; often used for incompetent politicians or professionals.

이번 후보는 능력 면에서 함량 미달이다.

Formal/Critical

"빛 좋은 개살구"

— A wild apricot with a good color (looks good but tastes bad); someone who looks capable but is actually incompetent.

그는 겉만 번지르르하지 능력없는 빛 좋은 개살구다.

Informal

"빈 수레가 요란하다"

— Empty carts make the most noise; incompetent people talk the most.

정말 능력없는 사람일수록 말이 많다. 빈 수레가 요란한 법이다.

Common

"낫 놓고 ㄱ자도 모른다"

— Not knowing the letter 'G' even when looking at a sickle; being extremely ignorant or incapable.

그는 너무 능력없어서 낫 놓고 ㄱ자도 모르는 수준이다.

Traditional

"서당 개 삼 년이면 풍월을 읊는다"

— Even a school dog can recite a poem after three years; used to shame someone who is still '능력없다' after a long time.

서당 개 삼 년이면 풍월을 읊는다는데 넌 왜 아직도 능력없니?

Common

"밑 빠진 독에 물 붓기"

— Pouring water into a bottomless jar; trying to help someone who is fundamentally '능력없다'.

능력없는 그를 돕는 것은 밑 빠진 독에 물 붓기다.

Common

"말 타면 경마 잡히고 싶다"

— Once you ride a horse, you want to lead it; used for incompetent people who become greedy for power.

능력없는 사람이 권력을 잡더니 말 타면 경마 잡히고 싶은 모양이다.

Literary

"재주가 메주다"

— One's talent is like fermented soybeans (clumpy and unrefined); a humorous way to say someone is incompetent.

나는 요리 재주가 메주라 정말 능력없어.

Humorous

"죽 쒀서 개 준다"

— Cooking porridge and giving it to a dog; doing hard work only for an incompetent person to ruin it or take credit.

능력없는 팀장 때문에 우리 노력이 죽 쒀서 개 준 꼴이 됐다.

Informal

容易混淆

능력없다 vs 무능력

Both mean 'no ability'.

'무능력' is a noun, '능력없다' is an adjective. '무능력' is often used in legal terms like '무능력자' (incapacitated person).

그는 경제적 무능력 상태다.

능력없다 vs 부족하다

Both imply not being good enough.

'부족하다' means 'lacking' and is more polite. It implies there is some ability, just not enough.

실력이 부족해서 더 연습해야 해요.

능력없다 vs 실력 없다

Both mean 'not good at'.

'실력' is acquired skill. '능력' is broader, including resources, power, and natural talent.

그는 실력은 없지만 인맥이 좋다.

능력없다 vs 소질 없다

Both mean 'no talent'.

'소질' is specifically for natural aptitude in things like music, art, or math.

나는 운동에는 소질 없다.

능력없다 vs 자격 없다

Both mean 'not fit'.

'자격' refers to formal qualifications or the moral right to do something.

너는 나를 비판할 자격 없다.

句型

[Person]은/는 능력없어요.

그는 능력없어요.

능력없는 [Noun] 때문에 [Negative Result].

능력없는 상사 때문에 회사가 망했어요.

[Action]하기에는 능력이 없어요.

이 프로젝트를 하기에는 능력이 없어요.

능력없다고 [Passive Verb].

능력없다고 무시당했어요.

능력없음에도 불구하고 [Unexpected Result].

능력없음에도 불구하고 승진했다.

능력없음을 [Verb].

자신의 능력없음을 깨달았다.

능력없는 자의 [Noun].

능력없는 자의 비참한 최후.

본질적으로 능력없다.

인간은 본질적으로 능력없다.

词族

名词

능력 (Ability)

무능 (Incompetence)

무능력자 (Incompetent person)

가능성 (Possibility)

动词

능력하다 (Rarely used, usually '능력이 있다')

무능하다 (To be incompetent - adjective/verb-like)

形容词

능력있는 (Capable)

유능한 (Competent)

무능한 (Incompetent)

전능한 (Omnipotent)

如何使用

frequency

Very high in media, office settings, and social critiques.

常见错误

Using '능력없다' for things. → 불가능하다 / 성능이 안 좋다
You can't say a car is '능력없다'. You say its performance (성능) is bad.
Saying '능력을 없다'. → 능력이 없다 / 능력없다
Since '없다' is an adjective, it takes the subject particle '-이/가', not the object particle '-을/를'.
Using it to mean 'I can't go'. → 못 가요 / 갈 수 없어요
'능력없다' is about general competence, not situational inability.
Confusing '능력없다' with '재미없다'. → 재미없다 (Uninteresting)
Learners sometimes mix up '없다' compounds. '능력' is ability, '재미' is fun.
Calling a teacher '능력없다' to be funny. → 실력이 부족하시다 (Polite criticism)
This is a very serious insult and will likely result in a punishment or severe offense.

小贴士

Be Careful with Coworkers

Never tell a coworker they are '능력없다' unless you want to start a major office war. It is considered a direct attack on their professional identity.

Adjective Rules

Remember that '능력없다' is an adjective. This means it doesn't take the '-ㄴ다' ending in the plain form; it stays as '능력없다'.

The 'Spec' Culture

Understanding '능력' helps you understand Korean 'Spec' culture, where people obsess over certificates and scores to prove they are not '능력없다'.

Humble Alternatives

If you are in a job interview, say '부족한 점이 많지만 열심히 하겠습니다' instead of saying you are '능력없다'.

Drama Tropes

When you hear a mother-in-law say '능력 없는 놈', she's almost certainly talking about the man's bank account.

Using Modifiers

Strengthen your writing by adding adverbs like '완전히' (completely) or '전혀' (at all) before '능력없다'.

Pronunciation Tip

The 'k' in 'neung-nyeok' is often silent or very soft when followed by the 'eo' in 'eop-da'. Practice the flow: 'neung-nyeok-eop-da'.

Learn the Family

Learn '무능력자' (incompetent person) and '능력자' (highly capable person) together to see the contrast.

Person vs. Skill

Remember: '능력없다' = The person is the problem. '못하다' = The action is the problem.

Internet Usage

On the internet, people often use '무능' as a short label for politicians or public figures they dislike.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of 'NEUNG' as 'NEW' and 'NYEOK' as 'KNOWLEDGE'. If you have 'NO NEW KNOWLEDGE', you are '능력없다' (Incapable).

视觉联想

Imagine a person trying to lift a heavy weight labeled 'SUCCESS' but they have no muscles. The lack of 'muscle' is their lack of '능력'.

Word Web

Workplace Money Success Failure Skill Incompetence Competition Spec (Qualifications)

挑战

Try to write three sentences describing a character in a movie who is '능력없다' but secretly has a hidden talent.

词源

The word is a compound of the Sino-Korean noun '능력' (能力) and the native Korean adjective '없다'.

原始含义： '능' (能) means 'ability/can' and '력' (力) means 'power/force'. '없다' means 'to not exist'.

Sino-Korean (Han-ja) combined with Native Korean (Pure Korean).

文化背景

Avoid using this word to describe coworkers or friends unless you are prepared for a serious conflict. It is a 'fighting word'.

In English, 'incompetent' sounds very professional or clinical. In Korean, '능력없다' can feel more personal and encompass your entire life value.

The movie 'Parasite' (기생충) explores the theme of being '능력없다' in a capitalist system. The drama 'Misaeng' (미생) depicts the struggle of office workers feared to be seen as '능력없는'. K-pop lyrics often use the term to describe a 'loser' in love.

在生活中练习

真实语境

Job Performance Review

능력 부족
성과 미달
업무 능력 향상
무능한 사원

Romantic Conflict

능력 없는 남자
비전이 없다
경제적 자립
실망했다

Political Criticism

무능한 행정
정책 실패
책임을 묻다
지도력 부재

Self-Reflection

자괴감이 들다
자신이 없다
노력이 부족하다
발전하고 싶다

Sports Commentary

전술적 능력
신체적 한계
실력 차이
감독의 무능

对话开场白

"능력 위주의 사회가 정말 공정하다고 생각하세요?"

"상사가 능력없을 때 어떻게 대처하는 게 좋을까요?"

"돈이 없으면 정말 능력없는 사람인 걸까요?"

"자신이 가장 능력없다고 느껴질 때가 언제인가요?"

"능력을 키우기 위해 요즘 무엇을 하고 계신가요?"

日记主题

과거에 내가 능력없다고 느꼈던 순간과 그것을 어떻게 극복했는지 써보세요.

능력있는 사람이란 어떤 사람인지 본인의 기준을 정의해 보세요.

사회가 능력없는 사람들을 어떻게 대해야 한다고 생각하는지 논하세요.

내가 가진 가장 큰 능력과 아직 부족한 능력에 대해 적어보세요.

만약 내가 능력없는 리더 밑에서 일하게 된다면 어떻게 행동할 것인지 계획해 보세요.

常见问题

10 个问题

Yes, it is often used as a serious insult in Korea. It implies that a person is useless or a failure in their professional or social role. You should avoid saying it to someone's face unless you intend to be very rude.

Yes, Koreans often use it to express self-deprecation or humbleness, but it can sound very negative. For a more natural humble expression, use '제가 많이 부족합니다' (I am very lacking).

'무능하다' is a Sino-Korean word (Hanja) and is more formal. You'll see it in news reports or textbooks. '능력없다' is more common in daily speech and dramas.

Not always, but in many social contexts, especially dating and marriage, '능력' is a common euphemism for financial stability and earning power.

You use the form '능력없는'. For example, '능력없는 사람' means 'an incapable person'.

The opposite is '능력있다' (to be capable/talented). It is a very high compliment in Korean society.

No, '능력없다' is only used for people, organizations, or institutions. You cannot say a 'computer is 능력없다'.

Both are used. '능력 없다' is a phrase (noun + adjective), while '능력없다' is often treated as a single compound adjective. The meaning is the same.

You would say '그는 수학에 능력이 없어요', but it's more natural to say '그는 수학을 못해요' or '수학에 소질이 없어요'.

Yes, it often appears in lyrics about feeling like a 'loser' or being unable to keep a lover because of a lack of success.

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