Translation guide
The English word 'capable' describes having the ability, skill, or qualities to do something. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives, verbs, and grammatical patterns depending on whether you're talking about general competence, specific skills, or inherent potential.
Expressing that someone can do something because they have the necessary skill or ability.
This is the most standard and neutral way to say 'capable of doing' or 'can do'. It works for both inherent ability and learned skills.
He is capable of playing the piano.
I am capable of speaking Japanese.
The potential form of verbs is a concise and very common way to express capability. It's less formal than ことができる and used in everyday speech.
He can play the piano.
I can speak Japanese.
An adjective meaning 'capable' or 'competent', often used to describe a person's overall ability, especially in professional contexts.
He is a capable engineer.
The verb できる itself means 'to be able to do' or 'can do'. It can be used alone or with a noun to indicate capability.
He is capable at his job.
Describing someone or something as having the inherent capacity to achieve or become something.
Literally 'has ability', this phrase is used to say someone is capable in a general sense or has the capacity for something.
She is capable of becoming a leader.
Means 'has talent', implying a natural capability or giftedness.
He is capable in music (has musical talent).
Using できる with a noun indicates capability related to that noun, often implying potential or possibility.
This machine is capable of complex tasks.
Describing a person who is generally capable, reliable, and gets things done.
A common phrase meaning 'reliable', 'steady', or 'capable'. It describes someone who is dependable and competent in daily life.
He is capable, so I feel at ease.
As above, but used more broadly for general competence.
Literally 'skilled arm', meaning a highly capable or skilled person, often in a trade or craft.
Both express capability, but ことができる is more formal and explicit. The potential form is shorter and more conversational. In writing or formal speech, ことができる is preferred. Note that with the potential form, the object particle を often changes to が.
I can speak Japanese. (formal)
I can speak Japanese. (casual)
English often uses 'capable' where Japanese would use simpler expressions like できる or potential verbs. Direct translations like 能力がある can sound stiff if overused. Choose the most natural phrasing for the context.
有能な秘書を探している。
We are looking for a capable secretary.
腕利きの職人に頼もう。
Let's ask a capable craftsman.