Meaning

Primary

True Strength

Alternatives

True Ability, True Power

Word Type

noun

Explanation

The truth behind someone's strength is their true strength. It is also their true ability.

Reading

じつりょく
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

This is a jukugo word, which usually means on'yomi readings from the kanji. Since has two on'yomi readings, here's a mnemonic to help you remember which one to use:

Your true strength is sealed behind two locks. Gee, two locks (じつりょく)?! People must have been scared of your true power to seal it behind two locks!

Context

Patterns of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 実力をもつ

    to have real ability

    実力を見せる

    to show one's real ability

    実力を付ける

    to improve one's real ability

Context Sentences

全ての実力を出しても、同点の引き分けでした。

Even if I used all of my true strength, it was still a draw.

弟は実力があるのに、なぜプロになれないのか不安に思っているようです。

The younger brother seems to be worried about why he cannot be a professional, despite his true strength.

コウイチのフラダンスの実力は本物です。

Koichi's hula dancing abilities are genuine.

Kanji Composition