Meaning & Definition of word "Ability"
Ability
/əˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/
noun:
- 1. The quality or state of being able to do something; capacity to perform or act.
- Example: Her ability to speak multiple languages impressed the entire team.
- 2. A skill or talent that a person possesses.
- Example: His ability to solve complex problems quickly made him a valuable employee.
- 3. The physical or mental power to perform.
- Example: The athlete demonstrated her ability to run long distances with ease.
- 4. Legal competence; the capacity to take action.
- Example: The court deemed him to have the ability to make his own decisions.
Etymology
●Middle English: from Old French 'abilite', from Latin 'habilitas', from 'habilis' meaning 'able, fit'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
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.
Slang Meanings of ability
Meaning: Being really good at something.
● Example Sentence: He's got mad ability on the basketball court.
Meaning: Street smarts or practical skill.
● Example Sentence: She has the ability to hustle and make a living.