能力

• Pinyin: néng lì
• Hanzi breakdown: 能 = originally a pictograph of a bear, meaning ability; 力 = pictograph of a plough or flexed arm, meaning strength

Meaning

Ability; capability; competence. The power or skill to do something.

A very common noun for describing what someone is capable of. Used in education, work, and personal development: 学习能力 (learning ability), 工作能力 (work capability), 语言能力 (language ability). Can be modified with 强 (strong) or 差 (poor): 他的能力很强 (He is very capable).

Examples

1. 他的学习能力很强，什么都学得很快。 He has a strong learning ability and picks up everything quickly.
2. 我们应该培养孩子独立生活的能力。 We should cultivate children's ability to live independently.
3. 这份工作需要很强的沟通能力。 This job requires strong communication skills.

Usage Guide

Context: education, work, personal development

Tone: evaluative

Do Say

• 她的组织能力非常强。(Her organisational ability is very strong.)
• 每个人的能力不一样。(Everyone's abilities are different.)

Don't Say

• 我没有能力吃辣。(Don't use 能力 for simple physical tolerance — use 受不了 or 不能吃. 能力 refers to skills and competence, not tolerance.)

Origin & History

能 originally depicted a bear, later meaning 'to be able'; 力 means strength or power. Together: the power to do something — ability.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal