1.
conversational ability; conversation skills
The ability to hold a conversation — typically referring to skill in a foreign language, but also used for the social skill of conversing well with others. Commonly discussed in language study and communication training.
My Japanese conversation skills improved dramatically through studying abroad.
Compound of 会話 ('conversation') and the suffix 力 ('ability; power'). The 力 suffix is highly productive and attaches to many nouns to form 'ability' words: 英語力 ('English ability'), 読解力 ('reading comprehension'), 集中力 ('concentration'), 表現力 ('expressive ability').
Usage
Most often used in the context of foreign-language study, especially in expressions like 英語の会話力 or 日本語の会話力. Can also refer to the social/interpersonal skill of carrying a conversation, particularly in business training contexts.
Common collocations
- 会話力を高める: to improve conversational ability
- 会話力を伸ばす: to extend/grow one's conversational ability
- 会話力を身につける: to acquire conversational skills
- 会話力がある: to have good conversational ability
- 会話力が足りない: to lack conversational ability
- 会話力テスト: conversation ability test
Similar words
- 語学力: language ability — broader; covers reading, writing, speaking, listening
- 英語力: English ability — specifically one language, across all four skills
- コミュニケーション能力: communication skills — even broader, includes non-verbal and written communication
- 話し方: way of speaking — delivery and style, not skill level
- 対話力: dialogue skills — more formal, emphasizes two-way exchange
Related Words
Compare:
語学力 (language ability)
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コミュニケーション能力 (communication skills)
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話し方 (way of speaking)
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対話力 (dialogue skills)