実力

• Reading: じつりょく
• Romaji: jitsuryoku
• Kanji breakdown: 実 (jitsu) — truth, reality; 力 (ryoku) — power, strength
• Pronunciation: /dʑi.tsɯ.ɾʲo.kɯ/

Meaning

Ability; real strength; true capability. Refers to one's actual competence or power.

A noun describing someone's genuine ability or skill level, as opposed to superficial appearances or credentials. Often used in contexts of competition, exams, and career advancement. Commonly appears in phrases like 実力がある (to have ability) and 実力を発揮する (to demonstrate one's ability).

Examples

1. 彼女は実力のあるピアニストだ。 She is a pianist with real ability.
2. 試験で実力を発揮できなかった。 I wasn't able to show my true ability on the exam.
3. このチームは実力で優勝した。 This team won the championship on pure skill.

Usage Guide

Context: sports, academics, business

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 実 (truth, reality) and 力 (power, strength). Together they express the concept of genuine, demonstrated power or ability.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal