Ability

/əˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The quality or state of being able to do something; capacity to perform or act.

Her ability to speak multiple languages impressed the entire team.

A skill or talent that a person possesses.

His ability to solve complex problems quickly made him a valuable employee.

The physical or mental power to perform.

The athlete demonstrated her ability to run long distances with ease.

Legal competence; the capacity to take action.

The court deemed him to have the ability to make his own decisions.

Middle English: from Old French 'abilite', from Latin 'habilitas', from 'habilis' meaning 'able, fit'.

ability to perform

The capacity or skill required to carry out a specific task.

ability for learning

A natural or developed skill to acquire knowledge.

ability to adapt

The capability to adjust to new conditions or environments.

capable

Having the ability or qualities necessary to do or achieve a specified thing.

inability

The state of being unable to do something.

ability test

An assessment that measures a person's skill or capacity to perform a particular job or task.

Being really good at something.

He's got mad ability on the basketball court.

Street smarts or practical skill.

She has the ability to hustle and make a living.