Translation guide
The ability to do something well, often in a professional or practical context. Japanese expresses this through nouns for skill, ability, and qualifications, as well as set phrases describing capability.
Describing someone's overall capability or proficiency in a field.
A broad term for ability or capacity. Often used in formal contexts.
He has high competence.
Emphasizes practical ability or caliber, often in professional settings.
His competence is being tested.
Real ability or true competence, often contrasted with appearance or credentials.
She is a lawyer of real competence.
Referring to the skills and knowledge required for a specific job or task.
Professional competence or expertise in a specialized field.
This job requires high professional competence.
Skill or proficiency, often in a craft or technical area.
Ability or competence in handling affairs; often used for managerial or political skill.
The legal authority or qualification to perform certain acts.
The ability to use a language correctly, often discussed in linguistics or education.
Being good enough to meet a standard, without implying brilliance.
能力 is the most general term for ability. 実力 emphasizes actual, demonstrated ability, often in contrast to theoretical knowledge or reputation. 力量 is used for practical competence, especially in professional or leadership roles.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'competence'. Choose the term that best fits the context: 能力 for general ability, 権限 for legal authority, 資格 for qualifications, etc.
His competence is recognized.
His political competence was appreciated.
He has the competence to practice medicine.
語学力を伸ばしたい。
I want to improve my language competence.