ability
noun (countable)
UK/əˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/US/əˈbɪl.ə.ti/
the power or skill to do something.
Example Sentences
She has the ability to solve complex problems.
His ability to speak multiple languages impressed everyone.
The team showed great ability in handling the crisis.
You should always strive to enhance your abilities.
Her ability to remain calm under pressure is admirable.
The test is designed to measure your ability in mathematics.
Having the ability to adapt is crucial in today's fast-paced world.
He had the natural ability to connect with people and make them feel comfortable.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
Possessing the capability or talent to perform tasks effectively.This noun refers to the capacity or skill of an individual or thing to perform tasks successfully. It can apply broadly to mental, physical, or learned proficiencies in specific areas. For example, one might speak of an athlete’s athletic abilities, a student’s learning abilities, or a leader’s ability to inspire a team.
In writing or conversation, you can highlight someone’s strong or weak abilities, acknowledge improvements in ability through practice, and compare abilities among different individuals or contexts. It’s often accompanied by modifiers like “exceptional,” “limited,” or “outstanding,” which help specify the level or extent of proficiency.
Alternatives
Exploring Alternatives to "Ability"
Words like “capability,” “aptitude,” “competence,” and “skill” can serve as synonyms or alternatives.
“Capability” often stresses potential rather than proven performance, while “aptitude” suggests a natural or inherent talent. “Competence” conveys adequate or professional proficiency, and “skill” typically indicates learned expertise through training or experience.
Depending on context, these alternatives can add nuance, varying from a natural knack to a thoroughly refined mastery in a specific domain.
Writing
Effectively Highlighting "Ability" in Writing
When writing, highlight or qualify this concept by detailing the nature and extent of what someone can do. For instance, saying “He demonstrated a remarkable ability to solve complex problems” shows both the skill and the context.
Use modifiers or examples to give a clearer picture of how advanced or specialized this capability is. Avoid overusing generic terms without providing specifics; instead, illustrate ability with evidence, such as achievements or measurable outcomes.
Employ synonyms to maintain variety in your text. Make sure the term fits the proficiency level you’re describing.
Casual Conversation
Using "Ability" in Everyday Conversation
In everyday conversation, you might use this word to talk about someone's talent or proficiency: “She has a real ability to connect with people” or “He’s got an ability for cooking.”
Casual speech often pairs it with praise, comparison, or encouragement—for example, “You’ve got the ability to do so much more.”
It’s especially helpful when discussing practical situations, like evaluating someone’s performance at work, praising a friend’s natural talent, or planning personal growth strategies.
Etymology
The Etymology of "Ability"
Derived from Middle English and Anglo-Norman roots, the term traces back to Latin “habilitas,” meaning “aptitude” or “suitability.”
Over time, it came to encompass a broader sense of skill, competence, or power to act. Historically, it has been used in legal and philosophical contexts to discuss what an individual is capable of doing.
Its journey through various languages highlights the universal concern with recognizing and describing human potential.
