本領
Meanings
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.
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.
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.
In the Edo period, daimyo were granted fiefs by the shogunate.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉が本領を見せるfor someone to reveal their true ability
He finally showed his true ability in the final match.
- 〈事〉が〈人〉の本領だfor something to be someone's forte
Detailed work is her true strength.
- 本領を取り戻すto regain one's true form or ability
The player who returned from injury regained his true form.
Expressions
- 本領を発揮display one's real ability; show one's stuff; come into one's own; hit one's stride