Looking up...
有能力
yǒu néng lì
be capable
他很有能力，所以老板很信任他。
He is very capable, so his boss trusts him.
neutral
To possess the necessary skills, competence, or resources to perform a task or fulfill a role.
这家公司有能力完成这个大项目。
This company is capable of completing this major project.
她有能力处理复杂的局面。
She is capable of handling complex situations.
Often used to describe someone's professional or practical competence rather than abstract potential.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid overusing
While 有能力 is useful, avoid repeating it in the same paragraph. Alternate with synonyms like 能干 or 胜任 to maintain natural flow.
Gold Rule
Context matters
有能力 often implies practical application. For abstract potential, use 有潜力 (yǒu qiánlì, 'has potential').
Word Origin
The phrase combines 有 (yǒu, 'to have') with 能力 (nénglì, 'ability/capability'). 能力 itself derives from 能 (néng, 'ability') + 力 (lì, 'strength'), reflecting the Confucian concept of 'virtue and talent' (才德). The compound form emerged in modern Mandarin to emphasize practical competence.
Usage Notes
有能力 is typically used in professional or task-oriented contexts. It emphasizes proven ability rather than innate talent. The phrase often appears in resumes, performance reviews, or evaluations of someone's qualifications.
Word Breakdown
有
to have
verb能力
ability/capability
noun汉英词典