ability
/əˈbɪlɪti
/noun (plural abilities)
1 [in singular, with infinitive] Possession of the means or skill to do something: the manager had lost his ability to motivate the players...
- All you are paying for is the ability to say that you've seen it early.
- Britain should adopt a graduated income tax based on the ability to pay.
- Finally, a more equal system of registration fees should be introduced, based on the ability to pay.
Synonyms
capacity, capability, potential, potentiality, power, faculty, aptness, facility, propensity, wherewithal, means, preparedness
2 [mass noun] Talent, skill, or proficiency in a particular area: a man of exceptional ability [count noun]: pupils of all abilities...
- She utilized her resources to the best of her ability.
- I'd never seen her in a show before, so I had no idea the extent of her ability.
- It is a mark of her ability that the player has managed to remain in the world's top five despite the injuries.
Synonyms
talent, skill, expertise, expertness, adeptness, aptitude, skilfulness, prowess, mastery, artistry, calibre, accomplishment;
competence, competency, proficiency;
dexterity, adroitness, deftness, cleverness, smartness, flair, finesse, gift, knack, brilliance, genius;
qualification, resources;
French savoir faire
informal know-how
Phrases
to the best of one's ability
Origin
Late Middle English: from Old French ablete, from Latin habilitas, from habilis 'able'.