Synonyms for

Ability

Verb / ʌˈbɪlʌˌti: / Another word for ability — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Ability means the power or skill to do something.

Synonyms & similar words

inability power skill talent capability competence capacity proficiency expertise aptitude knack gift flair potential power faculty prowess dexterity mastery knowledge wisdom intelligence

Synonyms by register

Formal

capability competence proficiency faculty

Informal

knack skill know-how talent

Literary

aptitude gift virtuosity

Antonyms

inability incapacity disability impotence weakness ineptitude

Common collocations

  • ability to learn
  • ability to adapt
  • special ability
  • natural ability
  • problem-solving ability
  • communication ability
  • physical ability

Word family

noun ability
verb enable
adjective able

Usage note

While 'ability' and 'capability' are often interchangeable, 'capability' sometimes implies potential or capacity rather than current skill. 'Ability' is generally a more common and versatile term.

Example sentences

  1. 1. His ability to play the guitar is impressive.
  2. 2. She used her ability to solve the math problem.
  3. 3. The athlete's ability to run fast helped him win the race.
  4. 4. The chef's ability to cook delicious food made the restaurant popular.
  5. 5. The artist's ability to draw detailed pictures was admired by many.

Quotes

  • 1. 'The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.' -Nelson Mandela
  • 2. 'Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle.' -Christian D. Larson
  • 3. 'The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.' -Franklin D. Roosevelt

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