Translation guide
The English word "skill" refers to the ability to do something well, usually gained through practice or learning. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; the best choice depends on whether you mean a practical technique, a talent, a professional ability, or a personal quality.
He is a man of many skills.
多才 means 'multitalented', a natural way to express having many skills.
The ability to perform a task well, often a physical or hands-on skill learned through practice.
Refers to technique, technical skill, or craftsmanship. Commonly used for practical skills like cooking, sports, or crafts.
He has great cooking skills.
Refers to skill or ability, often with a nuance of dexterity or proficiency. Commonly used for hobbies or crafts.
A loanword from English, often used in business, gaming, or self-development contexts. It can sound slightly trendy or technical.
I want to improve my communication skills.
Refers to a practical skill or proficiency, often used in formal or educational contexts, such as vocational skills.
An innate ability or talent for doing something well, often in arts or sports.
Refers to talent or natural ability. Often used for artistic, athletic, or intellectual gifts.
He has a talent for music.
A general word for ability or capability, including both innate and acquired skills. Broader than 才能.
Refers to a special skill or forte, often a personal hobby or party trick.
Skills required for a profession or workplace, often acquired through training or experience.
The most common term in business contexts for job-related skills. Often used in resumes and job descriptions.
This position requires advanced IT skills.
Used for vocational or technical skills, especially in trades or manual work.
Refers to ability or competence, often in management or leadership. Implies practical skill in handling situations.
A general term for being skilled or expert in something, often used in compliments or self-description.
A na-adjective meaning 'good at' or 'skilled'. Very common in everyday speech.
Be careful: 上手 is often used as a compliment, but can sound patronizing if overused to non-native speakers.
She is skilled at drawing.
A na-adjective meaning 'one's strong point' or 'something one is good at'. More subjective than 上手.
Refers to proficiency or mastery gained through long experience. Often used for craftsmen or experts.
技術 (gijutsu) is technique or technical skill, often for hands-on or specialized tasks. スキル (sukiru) is a loanword used in modern, business, or self-development contexts. 腕前 (udemae) implies proficiency from practice, often used for hobbies. Choose based on context: 技術 for craftsmanship, スキル for professional skills, 腕前 for personal hobbies.
In many cases, Japanese uses adjectives like 上手 (jouzu) or 得意 (tokui) instead of a noun. Saying 'I have skill in English' is unnatural; instead say '英語が得意です' (I'm good at English).
Communication skills are important in any job.
能力 (nouryoku) is often used for soft skills.
He showed great skill in negotiating.
手腕 (shuwan) is good for skill in handling situations.
This job requires special skills.
彼女のピアノの腕前は素晴らしい。
Her piano skills are wonderful.
技能試験に合格した。
I passed the skills test.
She is blessed with a talent for languages.
彼はリーダーシップの能力が高い。
He has strong leadership skills.
私の特技は早口言葉です。
My special skill is tongue twisters.
技能実習生として日本に来た。
I came to Japan as a technical intern trainee.
彼の経営手腕が会社を救った。
His management skills saved the company.
Your Japanese is good!
数学は得意ですか？
Are you good at math?
熟練した職人の技術は素晴らしい。
The skill of a seasoned craftsman is amazing.