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JapanLingo

ability

N3
Onyomi
Stroke count
10
JLPT
N3

Onyomi are readings often used in compound words. Kunyomi are native Japanese readings. Learn each reading with an example word.

Memory tip

A flat illustration of a figure straining to lift a weight overhead, with the kanji 能 ("ability") drawn into the picture.

能 is the picture: a sturdy, four-legged shape braced and ready to perform. Set it against a figure straining to lift a weight overhead and the shape carries its meaning, "ability", with it.

Stroke Order

Stroke count: 10

General writing tips

These general rules have exceptions. Follow the animation and numbered frames for this character.

  • •Write from top to bottom.
  • •Write from left to right.
  • •Write horizontal strokes before the vertical strokes that cross them.
  • •Draw an outer enclosure first, then fill in what is inside.
  • •In symmetric shapes, write the centre before the left and right sides.
  • •This kanji has 10 strokes — trace them in order in the practice area below.

Step by step

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Practice Writing

Free writing practice — compare your writing with the example. This canvas does not check your shape or stroke order. Draw with a mouse, finger, or pen; scroll outside the square to move down the page.

Trace the faded character, or hide the outline to practise from memory.

Writing Tips

  • Follow the order strictly: top-to-bottom and left-to-right. Correct order makes the shape balanced and natural.
  • Keep each stroke in one smooth motion — don't lift the pen in the middle of a stroke.
  • Close enclosing strokes cleanly so the character does not look open or broken.
  • Common mistake: drawing strokes bottom-to-top or right-to-left. Even if the result looks similar, the wrong order shows in handwriting and makes it harder to read.

Example words

nouryoku

ability

kinou

function

nouryokugataisetsudesu

ability is important

nouryokugahitsuyoudesu

ability is necessary

nouryokuokangaemasu

to think about ability

kinouojissoushimasu

to implement the function

Example sentences (5)

kare wa mondai o kaiketsu suru nouryoku ga takai desu.

He has a strong ability to solve problems.

nouryoku yori, tsuzukeru chikara no hou ga daiji da to iwaremashita.

I was told that the ability to keep going matters more than talent.

kono apuri ni wa benrina kinou ga ooi desu.

This app has many useful functions.

kono kinou wa raigetsu no appudeeto de tsukaeru you ni naru sou desu.

I hear this feature will become usable in next month's update.

kono kinou o shiyou suru ni wa roguin ga hitsuyou desu.

You need to log in to use this feature.