Meanings of 能耐
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 能耐
Podcast: 能耐
Podcast: 能耐
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 能耐
能 (néng) vs 能力 (nénglì) — use 能耐 when emphasizing practical skills or effectiveness, while 能力 refers more broadly to one's overall ability or potential.
Be mindful that 能耐 is often used in informal contexts and may carry a slightly colloquial tone. It commonly collocates with words like '工作' (work) or '挑战' (challenge). Avoid confusing it with 能力 (neng4 li), which refers more to inherent or learned abilities.
While 能耐 is not an HSK word, it connects well with other HSK vocabulary related to skills and abilities, such as 能力 (neng4 li). Students should focus on how 能耐 emphasizes practical skills in contrast to theoretical knowledge.
Learners often confuse 能耐 with 能力; for instance, saying '他的能耐很高' (His capability is high) is incorrect; it should be '他的能力很高' to refer to inherent abilities.
Pronunciation of 能耐
Drill the tone of 能耐 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Component Characters
How to say ability in Chinese
“ability” in Chinese is能耐
能耐 (neng2 nai4) refers to one's ability or capability to accomplish tasks or face challenges. It is often used to describe someone's skills in a particular area or their overall competence in various situations, emphasizing practical effectiveness rather than just theoretical knowledge.
When to use 能耐
Be mindful that 能耐 is often used in informal contexts and may carry a slightly colloquial tone. It commonly collocates with words like '工作' (work) or '挑战' (challenge). Avoid confusing it with 能力 (neng4 li), which refers more to inherent or learned abilities.
能耐 or something close to it
能 (néng) vs 能力 (nénglì) — use 能耐 when emphasizing practical skills or effectiveness, while 能力 refers more broadly to one's overall ability or potential.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 能耐 with 能力; for instance, saying '他的能耐很高' (His capability is high) is incorrect; it should be '他的能力很高' to refer to inherent abilities.
Write 能耐
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 能耐 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Cultural Notes for 能耐
In Western cultures, the emphasis is often on innate talent or potential, while in Chinese culture, 能耐 highlights the importance of hard work and practical experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about 能耐
You can say, '他在这个项目上很有能耐,' meaning 'He has great capability in this project.'
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 能耐?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.