才能

• Pinyin: cái néng
• Hanzi breakdown: 才 = originally a pictograph of a sprouting plant, symbolising emerging talent; 能 = originally depicted a bear, extended to mean ability

Meaning

Talent; ability; capability. Natural aptitude or acquired skill in a particular area.

Refers to a person's inherent or developed abilities, often implying notable skill or talent. Used in contexts discussing personal strengths, career aptitude, or exceptional gifts. Common in phrases like 发挥才能 (to display one's talents) and 有才能的人 (a talented person).

Examples

1. 每个人都有自己的才能，关键是要发现它。 Everyone has their own talent — the key is to discover it.
2. 他在音乐方面表现出了非凡的才能。 He has shown extraordinary talent in music.
3. 公司需要有才能的年轻人来帮助发展业务。 The company needs talented young people to help develop the business.

Usage Guide

Context: education, career, personal development

Tone: positive

Do Say

• 她很有才能，什么事情都做得很好。(She is very talented and does everything well.)
• 我们应该给年轻人机会发挥才能。(We should give young people the opportunity to show their talents.)

Don't Say

• 他有很多才能做饭 (Don't use 才能 for ordinary daily skills — use 能力 for general ability; 才能 implies notable or exceptional talent)

Origin & History

Compound of 才 (talent, just/only) and 能 (ability, can), together emphasising innate or developed capability.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal