Another Word for Ability: 14 Synonyms with Examples
Ability means the power, skill or capacity to do something. Swap it to say whether the ability is natural, trained or simply possible.
As a noun: the power or capacity to do something
- capacity
- capability
- power
- potential
- means
- facility
As a noun: skill or talent
- skill
- talent
- aptitude
- competence
- expertise
- gift
- flair
- proficiency
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- capacity
- The amount someone or something can do or hold; formal.
- capability
- The ability to do a particular thing, often of a system or organisation.
- potential
- Ability that has not yet been fully developed.
- skill
- Ability gained through training and practice.
- talent
- A natural ability to do something well.
- competence
- Being able to do something to an acceptable standard.
Example sentences
- capacity: The hall has a capacity of 400 people.
- capability: The new phone has the capability to translate speech.
- potential: The coach saw great potential in the young striker.
- skill: Typing quickly is a useful skill in almost any office.
- talent: Her talent for languages helped her find work abroad.
- competence: Drivers must show competence before they get a licence.
Opposite of ability
- inability
- incapacity
- incompetence
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “ability”?
The most useful alternatives are “capacity”, “capability”, “power”, “potential”, “means”. For the main sense (the power or capacity to do something), “capacity” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “capacity” and “capability”?
capacity: The amount someone or something can do or hold; formal. capability: The ability to do a particular thing, often of a system or organisation.
What is the opposite of “ability”?
Common antonyms are “inability”, “incapacity”, “incompetence”.