Translation and Meaning of: 性能 - seinou

If you are studying Japanese or have an interest in the language, you may have come across the word 性能[せいのう]. It appears in technical contexts, product evaluations, and even in discussions about efficiency. But what exactly does it mean? In this article, we will explore the meaning, uses, and some peculiarities of this word, along with tips to memorize it correctly. Whether to expand your vocabulary or better understand Japanese culture, this guide will help you.

The meaning and uses of 性能[せいのう]

The word 性能[せいのう] is composed of the kanjis 性 (nature, property) and 能 (ability, capacity). Together, they form a term that translates to "performance," "efficiency," or "functional capacity." It is common to see it in contexts that assess the quality of machines, electronics, and even software.

For example, when comparing two smartphones, a Japanese person might say: 「このスマホの性能はすごい」 (Kono sumaho no seinou wa sugoi) – "The performance of this smartphone is amazing." The word also appears in technical manuals, product reviews, and even in discussions about cars and appliances.

The origin and structure of kanjis

The kanji 性 (sei) represents "nature" or "property", while 能 (nou) means "ability" or "capacity". The combination of these ideograms reflects the idea of assessing the functional characteristics of something. This construction is common in technical terms in Japanese, which often combines kanjis to create precise concepts.

It is worth noting that 性能 is not an old or rare word. It is part of everyday vocabulary, especially in environments where efficiency and performance are discussed. Its use dates back to the period when Japan began to industrialize, reinforcing the importance of measuring technical capabilities.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to fix 性能[せいのう] is to associate it with practical situations. Think of products that rely on good performance, such as video games, computers, or vehicles. Repeating phrases like 「性能がいい」 (seinou ga ii – "has good performance") helps to internalize the term.

Another tip is to observe the use of the word in reviews and technology videos in Japanese. Many YouTube channels and specialized articles frequently use 性能, which makes contextual learning easier. Over time, you will naturally recognize where and how to use it.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 機能 (Kinou) - Function, role played by something or someone.
• 実力 (Jitsuryoku) - Real capacity, skills, or competencies that a person possesses.
• 能力 (Nouryoku) - Skill or ability, usually associated with the potential to perform tasks.
• 能率 (Nouritsu) - Efficiency, the relationship between the result achieved and the resources used to achieve it.
• 力量 (Rikiryoku) - Power or strength, both physical and symbolic.

性能

Romaji: seinou
Kana: せいのう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: ability; efficiency

Meaning in English: ability;efficiency

Definition: Functions and capabilities possessed by equipment, systems, etc.

Example Sentences - (性能) seinou

See below some example sentences:

この機械の性能は非常に高いです。

Kono kikai no seino wa hijō ni takai desu

The performance of this machine is very high.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that indicates proximity, equivalent to "this" or "this"
• 機械 - noun meaning "machine"
• の - particle that indicates possession or relationship of belonging
• 性能 - noun meaning "performance" or "performance"
• は - particle that indicates the main theme of the sentence
• 非常に - adverb meaning "very" or "extremely"
• 高い - adjective that means "high" or "elevated"
• です - verb "to be" in the present affirmative