Quick answer
能 is the kanji for "Ability". It is a JLPT N3 kanji. The main reading is よ.く (yoku). Stroke-order practice is available below.
Meaning
Ability
Also : Skill · Talent · Capacity
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Readings
kun = Japanese reading · on = Chinese reading
Practice writing
Trace the kanji stroke by stroke with a visual guide.
Stroke Order
10 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 能 represents 'ABILITY'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of ability.
On-reading: のう — remember this sound by associating it with ability. Kun-reading: よ.く.
Example Sentences
この仕事には能力が必要です。
このしごとにはのうりょくがひつようです。
This job requires ability.
可能性を信じてください。
かのうせいをしんじてください。
Please believe in the possibilities.
Vocabulary using 能
Grammar to study at this level
- [Verb dictionary/nai form] + ように～ように (you ni) - So that
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことにする～ことにする (koto ni suru) - Decide to
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことになる～ことになる (koto ni naru) - It has been decided that
- [Noun/Verb te-form] + ばかり～ばかり (bakari) - Only / Nothing but
- [Verb/Adjective plain form] + はずだ～はずだ (hazu da) - Should be / It is expected
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
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