能動的

• Reading: のうどうてき
• Romaji: nōdōteki
• Kanji breakdown: 能 (nō) — ability, skill, talent; 動 (dō/ugo) — move, motion; 的 (teki) — -like, target
• Pronunciation: /no.ɯ.do.ɯ.te.ki/

Meaning

Active; proactive. Acting on one's own initiative rather than passively.

A na-adjective meaning 'active' in the sense of taking initiative — the opposite of 受動的 (judōteki, passive). Used in educational, philosophical, and professional contexts: 能動的な学習 (active learning), 能動的に参加する (to participate proactively). Also a grammar term: 能動態 (nōdōtai, active voice). More formal and specific than 積極的 (sekkyokuteki, proactive/enthusiastic), which emphasises eagerness rather than the active-vs-passive distinction.

Examples

1. 能動的に学ぶ姿勢が大切だ。 It's important to have a proactive attitude toward learning.
2. 受け身ではなく能動的に行動しよう。 Let's act on our own initiative rather than sitting back passively.
3. 能動的な参加を促すための工夫が必要だ。 We need to come up with ways to encourage active participation.

Usage Guide

Context: education, business, philosophy

Tone: encouraging

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 能 (nō, ability/skill) + 動 (dō, move/act) + 的 (teki, -like/-ical). Together they form 'of the nature of being able to act' — describing action driven by one's own capability and will.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated