Translation guide
The English word 'competent' describes having the necessary ability, knowledge, or skill to do something successfully. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various words and phrases that emphasize different aspects of competence, such as skill level, reliability, or qualification.
Describing someone who is capable and can perform a task well enough, often in a work or general context.
A common adjective meaning 'able' or 'capable', often used for people who perform their duties well. It implies a general competence and reliability.
He is a competent employee.
A versatile verb meaning 'can do' or 'is able'. When used to describe a person, it means they are competent or capable. Often used in casual and business contexts.
She is a truly competent person.
The attributive form of 有能, used directly before nouns. It is slightly more formal than できる.
We need a competent leader.
Literally 'has ability/skill', this phrase emphasizes practical competence and skill in handling tasks, often in professional settings.
He is competent in management.
Means 'proficient' or 'skilled', often used for language ability or specific skills. It implies a high level of competence.
He is competent in English.
Describing something that is good enough, satisfactory, or acceptable, often in terms of quality or performance.
Means 'sufficient' or 'enough'. It can be used to describe a competent level of performance or quality that meets requirements.
His work was competent enough to be satisfactory.
An adverb meaning 'passable' or 'so-so'. It conveys a sense of being competent but not outstanding.
Literally 'passing mark', used to describe something that meets the minimum standard of competence.
Describing someone who has the authority, certification, or legal capacity to perform a specific role.
有能 is a more formal, written term that directly translates to 'competent' or 'able'. できる is a colloquial, versatile word that can mean 'competent' when describing a person, but it also means 'can do' in general. In business settings, できる人 is a common phrase for a competent person, while 有能な人 is slightly more formal.
The English word 'competent' does not have a single perfect equivalent in Japanese. Using コンピテント (kompitento) is not natural. Instead, choose a word based on the specific nuance: ability (有能), sufficiency (十分), or qualification (資格がある).
She is a competent doctor.
He gave a competent performance.
Are you competent to handle this case?
彼のプレゼンはまずまずだった。
His presentation was competent.
His performance is competent (passable).
Only he is competent to make that decision.