A2noun 1K

Ability

🇬🇧 UK /["/əˈbɪləti/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/əˈbɪləti/"]/

Meaning of Ability

the fact that somebody/something is able to do something

In simple words: The skill to do something.

Ability in a sentence

• She has the ability to learn new languages quickly.
• His ability to solve problems is impressive.
• Every child has the ability to be creative in their own way.
• They are testing the ability of the new software to handle large data sets.
• He lacks the ability to focus on his studies.

How to use Ability

Use 'ability' in contexts where referring to someone's skills or talents. Avoid it in very casual conversations where simpler words like 'skill' may be more appropriate.

Grammar pattern

have + ability + to + verb

Memory hint

Think of 'ability' as 'able' — you are able to do something.

Related words

Collocations with Ability

• exceptional
• extraordinary
• great
• level
• have
• possess
• retain
• ability in
• to the best of your ability
• high
• limited
• low
• assess
• measure
• test
• level
• range
• a range of ability
• a range of abilities

Synonyms for Ability

• skill
• talent
• capability
• proficiency
• power

Opposites of Ability

• inability
• ineptness

Common mistakes with Ability

• Confused with 'capability' — 'ability' refers to a skill, while 'capability' refers to the potential to develop a skill.
• Using 'ability' without a verb or context can make sentences unclear.
• Incorrectly pluralizing as 'abilities' when referring to a single skill.

Frequently asked questions about Ability

What does Ability mean?

The skill to do something.

What is the definition of Ability?

the fact that somebody/something is able to do something

How do you use Ability in a sentence?

She has the ability to learn new languages quickly.

Can you give another example of Ability?

His ability to solve problems is impressive.

What are synonyms for Ability?

Common alternatives include skill, talent, capability, proficiency, power.

What is the opposite of Ability?

Opposite meanings include inability, ineptness.

What words go with Ability?

It commonly pairs with exceptional, extraordinary, great, level, have, possess, retain, ability in, to the best of your ability, high, limited, low, assess, measure, test, level, range, a range of ability, a range of abilities.

What are common mistakes when using Ability?

Confused with 'capability' — 'ability' refers to a skill, while 'capability' refers to the potential to develop a skill. Using 'ability' without a verb or context can make sentences unclear. Incorrectly pluralizing as 'abilities' when referring to a single skill.

How do you pronounce Ability?

US: /["/əˈbɪləti/"]/, UK: /["/əˈbɪləti/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Ability?

Use 'ability' in contexts where referring to someone's skills or talents. Avoid it in very casual conversations where simpler words like 'skill' may be more appropriate.

What CEFR level is Ability?

"Ability" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.