Translation and Meaning of: 可能 - kanou

The Japanese word 可能[かのう] is an essential term for anyone learning the language or interested in Japanese culture. Its main meaning is related to the idea of "possibility" or "viability," and it is frequently used in both formal and everyday contexts. In this article, we will explore everything from the origin and writing of this word to its practical usage in sentences and real situations. If you're looking to understand how the Japanese express the notion of something being achievable, you're in the right place.

In addition to unraveling the meaning of 可能, we will discuss its application in different scenarios, such as conversations, academic texts, and even in animes. Suki Nihongo, known for being one of the best online Japanese dictionaries, provides this detailed analysis so that you not only memorize but also deeply understand how this word functions in the Japanese language.

Meaning and origin of 可能

The word 可能 is composed of two kanji: 可 (ka), which conveys the idea of "permission" or "acceptance," and 能 (nou), associated with "ability" or "capability." Together, they form a term that conveys the notion of something being possible or achievable. Unlike more informal words, 可能 has a slightly more formal tone, being common in documents, speeches, and situations that require politeness.

Its origin dates back to classical Chinese, where the characters were already used with similar meanings. When incorporated into Japanese, the word maintained this essence but gained nuances specific to the language. It is worth noting that, although 可能 is frequently translated as "possible," it is not interchangeable in all contexts with other expressions like できる or ありえる, which also carry meanings of possibility.

Everyday use and common phrases

In their daily lives, the Japanese use 可能 in situations that involve planning, negotiations, or when they need to express that something is feasible. For example, in a work environment, it is common to hear phrases like "その提案は可能ですか？" (Sono teian wa kanou desu ka?), which means "Is this proposal feasible?". The word also frequently appears in public notices, manuals, and instructions, reinforcing its practical nature.

One tip to memorize 可能 is to associate it with contexts where possibility is being evaluated objectively. Unlike more subjective expressions, this word is often used when there is a concrete analysis behind it. If you are studying Japanese, try creating flashcards with real examples, such as "この機械は修理が可能です" (Kono kikai wa shuuri ga kanou desu), which means "This machine can be repaired."

Curiosities and Cultural Aspects

Although 可能 may not be an exclusively technical word, it frequently appears in discussions about innovation and technology in Japan. Companies and researchers often use it to describe advancements and solutions that were once considered impossible. This usage reflects an important cultural trait: the appreciation of pragmatism and efficiency in Japanese society.

Another interesting point is that, unlike Portuguese, where "possible" can be used more broadly and even colloquially, 可能 maintains a certain degree of formality in Japanese. This does not mean it is rare in informal conversations, but its spontaneous use tends to be less frequent than alternatives like できる or かもしれない. For Japanese learners, understanding these nuances is essential to sound more natural when speaking.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• できる (dekiru) - to manage; to be able to
• ありうる ( ariuru) - it can happen; it's possible that it will happen
• あり得る ( arieru) - it may occur; there is a possibility of existence
• 可行 ( kourgou) - viable; in compliance with the rules
• 可能性 ( kanousei) - possibility; chance of something happening
• 可能である ( kanou de aru) - it's possible; it's feasible

可能

Romaji: kanou
Kana: かのう
Type: Noun, adjective
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: possible; feasible; viable

Meaning in English: possible;practicable;feasible

Definition: Possible: something that can be achieved.

Example Sentences - (可能) kanou

See below some example sentences:

無限の可能性がある。

Mugen no kanōsei ga aru

There is an infinite possibility.

• 無限 - means "infinite" in Japanese.
• の - It is a possessive particle in Japanese, equivalent to "de" in English.
• 可能性 - means "possibility" in Japanese.
• が - It is a subject particle in Japanese, equivalent to "is" in English.
• ある - significa "existir" em japonês.
• . - period, indicating the end of the sentence.

空想は現実になる可能性がある。

Kuusou wa genjitsu ni naru kanousei ga aru

Fantasy can be a reality.

• 空想 (kuusou) - it means "fantasy" or "imagination"
• は (wa) - grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
• 現実 (genjitsu) - means "reality"
• に (ni) - Grammatical marker that indicates the location or target of the action
• なる (naru) - verb meaning "to become"
• 可能性 (kanousei) - It means "possibility".
• が (ga) - Grammatical particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• ある (aru) - Verb that means "to exist"

素質がある人は成功する可能性が高いです。

Soshitsu ga aru hito wa seikou suru kanousei ga takai desu

As pessoas com qualidades provavelmente terão sucesso.

• 素質 - qualidade, habilidade
• が - subject particle
• ある - existir, ter
• 人 - person
• は - Topic particle
• 成功する - succeed
• 可能性 - possibility
• が - subject particle
• 高い - high
• です - to be (polite form)