Abilities Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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abilities
abil-i-ties
Definitions
in a job application
Skills or talents that an individual possesses, which may be relevant to a specific job or task.
Synonyms
capabilities, skills, talents.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| abilities |
General word for what someone can do, often used to describe both physical and mental capacity.
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| skills |
Refers to specific proficiencies or areas of expertise that are often learned or practiced.
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| talents |
Implies a natural or innate ability, often used to describe artistic or creative strengths.
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| capabilities |
Used often in a more technical or formal setting, focusing on the extent of someone's or something's power or effectiveness.
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Examples of usage
- Her abilities in project management were a key factor in securing the position.
- His technical abilities impressed the interview panel.
in a superhero context
Superhuman powers or skills possessed by a fictional character, typically in comic books or movies.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| abilities |
General term for natural talents or capacities to perform specific tasks. Suitable for both general and specific contexts.
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| powers |
Refers to exceptional or supernatural abilities. Often used when talking about authority or physical/magical strength. Can have a dramatic or mythical connotation.
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| skills |
Specific learned abilities needed to perform tasks effectively. Often used in professional or educational contexts.
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| capabilities |
Often used to describe someone's potential or the extent to which they can perform a task. Frequently used in a technical or professional setting.
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Examples of usage
- Superman's abilities include flight, super strength, and x-ray vision.
- Spider-Man's abilities to climb walls and sense danger make him a formidable hero.
in a general context
The quality of being able to do something, often related to competence or proficiency.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| abilities |
This term is generally used to describe a person's physical or mental power to do something. It's a broad term that can encompass both learned skills and natural talents.
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| skills |
This is typically used to refer to specific proficiencies or abilities acquired through training or practice. It often implies a learned aspect rather than innate talent.
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| talents |
This refers to a natural aptitude or gift for something. It implies that the person has an inherent ability that often gives them an edge over others without similar innate abilities.
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| competence |
Use this when referring to someone's skill level and ability to perform job functions or tasks effectively. It's often used in professional or educational settings.
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Examples of usage
- His abilities as a musician are widely recognized in the industry.
- She demonstrated her abilities as a leader during the crisis.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Quick facts about “abilities”
Abilities is a 3-syllable noun (abil-i-ties). It is pronounced /əˈbɪɫəˌtiz/ in American English and /ɐbˈɪlətˌiz/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 3 meanings, 9 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #4,867 among the most common English words.
Origin of 'abilities'
The word 'abilities' originates from the Latin word 'abilitas', meaning 'capability' or 'skill'. Over time, it has evolved to encompass a broad range of skills, talents, and powers, both in real-life contexts and fictional settings. The concept of abilities has been a crucial aspect of human development and accomplishment throughout history, with individuals striving to enhance and showcase their unique capabilities in various fields.
Rhymes
Abilities rhymes with hostilities, facilities, responsibilities, possibilities, liabilities, capabilities, utilities and disabilities.