true character; real ability; specialty
Refers to someone's genuine nature, talent, or the area where they truly excel. Often used in phrases like 本領を発揮する (to demonstrate one's real ability).
He showed his true ability in the match.
この分野こそ彼の本領だ。
This field is exactly his specialty.
proper function; duty
Used for the role or purpose something is meant to serve. Slightly formal and less common than sense 1.
この制度の本領は弱者を守ることにある。
The proper function of this system is to protect the weak.
fief; inherited estate
Historical term for a feudal landholding. Rare in modern usage outside historical contexts.
江戸時代、大名は本領を幕府から与えられた。
In the Edo period, daimyo were granted fiefs by the shogunate.
He finally showed his true ability in the final match.
Detailed work is her true strength.
The player who returned from injury regained his true form.