Translation guide
Describes someone who is capable, competent, or skilled. Japanese often uses specific nouns, adjectives, or phrases depending on the context—such as general ability, talent, or reliability—rather than a single direct equivalent.
彼は有能な人です。
He is an able person.
彼女はとてもできる人です。
She is a very capable person.
Very common in spoken Japanese. Literally 'person who can do it', implying competence and reliability.
田中さんは本当にできる人ですね。
Tanaka-san is a really capable person, isn't he?
Noun meaning 'ability' or 'competence', often used in formal contexts. Can stand alone to describe a person as 'able'.
彼は有能だ。
He is able/competent.
Literally 'sharp arm', meaning 'able' or 'shrewd', often used for businesspeople or professionals. Somewhat formal.
敏腕な弁護士
an able lawyer
To emphasize natural talent or high skill in a specific area.
Also works for talented individuals, though it leans more toward general competence.
彼女は有能なデザイナーです。
She is a talented designer.
Directly means 'person with talent'. Natural and common.
才能のある人を探しています。
We are looking for talented people.
As above, can be used attributively.
To describe someone who can be counted on, often in work or team settings.
Means 'a person one can rely on'. Very common and natural.
彼は本当に頼りになる人です。
He is a truly reliable person.
Implies reliability through competence.
有能な人を雇いたい。
I want to hire a capable/reliable person.
有能 is more formal and often used in writing or official contexts. できる is casual and common in speech. Both mean 'able/capable', but できる carries a nuance of 'gets things done'.
The English phrase 'able person' can sound stiff if translated literally as できる人 in every context. Use 有能な人 for formal situations, and consider 才能のある人 for talent.
有能な若者
a talented young person