Related words 有ゆう 能のう 有能 is a common adjective/noun meaning 'competent' or 'capable', while 有為の材 is a more literary, fixed expression specifically referring to a talented person.
人じん 材ざい 人材 is a general term for 'human resources' or 'talented people', whereas 有為の材 is a more elevated, individual-focused phrase.
Etymology 有為 (ゆうい ) means 'capable' or 'promising', and 材 (ざい ) here means 'material' or 'talent'. The phrase literally means 'material of promise', i.e., a person with the qualities to achieve great things. The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but it follows classical Chinese-influenced phrasing.
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