社会的スキル
shakaiteki sukiru
The English phrase "social skills" is translated into Japanese as 社会的スキル (shakaiteki sukiru).
社会的スキル refers to the personal skills involved in social communication and interaction. While it is a direct translation of the English term, it is worth noting that Japanese speakers more commonly use the phrase コミュニケーション能力 (communication ability) when referring to social or communication skills in most contexts.
Meaning: personal skills of social communication and interaction (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
shakaiteki sukiru
Did you know?
- In many Japanese social settings, 'social skills' are often judged by one's ability to read the air, a concept known as 空気を読む, or 'kuuki wo yomu'.
- The concept of 'social skills' in Japan is heavily influenced by the balance between 本音 (honne), one's true feelings, and 建前 (tatemae), the facade one shows to society.
- A person with low social skills might be described as コミュ障 (komyu-shō), a portmanteau of 'communication' and 'impediment' that has become a common self-deprecating label for introverts.
Examples in context
- 社会的スキルを磨きたいです。shakaiteki sukiru o migakitai desu.I want to polish my social skills.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about a new colleague.
- 陽葵 Himari新しい同僚は、社会的スキルがすごいね。Atarashii douryou wa, shakaiteki sukiru ga sugoi ne.The new colleague has amazing social skills, doesn't he?
- 健太 Kentaうん、誰とでもすぐに仲良くなれるよ。Un, dare to demo sugu ni nakayoku nareru yo.Yeah, he can get along with anyone quickly.
- 陽葵 Himari私もそんな風になりたいな。Watashi mo sonna fuu ni naritai na.I wish I could be like that too.
- 健太 Kenta練習すればきっと大丈夫だよ。Renshuu sureba kitto daijoubu da yo.I'm sure it'll be fine if you practice.
