Don't confuse with 能干 (néng gàn, can do). As an adjective meaning 'capable,' it's pronounced nénggàn with the second character in 4th tone. As 'can do,' 干 is also 4th tone but the phrase is used as verb + verb.
usage
能干 is always a compliment. It implies someone is not just smart but practically effective — they get results.
