才能

• Reading: さいのう
• Romaji: sainou
• Kanji breakdown: 才 (sai) — talent, genius; 能 (nou) — ability, skill
• Pronunciation: /sa.i.noː/

Meaning

Talent; ability; gift. A natural aptitude or skill in a particular area.

A noun referring to innate talent or exceptional ability. Often used with がある (to have talent) or を持つ (to possess talent). Implies natural aptitude rather than learned skill. Common in discussions about arts, sports, and academics. 才能豊か means 'richly talented.'

Examples

1. 彼女は音楽の才能がある。 She has a talent for music.
2. 努力だけでなく才能も必要だと思う。 I think you need not just effort but talent too.
3. 子供の才能を伸ばす教育が大切だ。 Education that nurtures children's talents is important.

Usage Guide

Context: arts, sports, education

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 才 (talent, genius) and 能 (ability, skill). 才 originally meant natural endowment, while 能 referred to capability, together expressing innate ability.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal