English Reference

Word

ability

Phoneticsabil·i·ty

US/əˈbɪɫəˌti/

UK/ɐbˈɪlətˌi/

Definitions

01capacity to do something

A2 · Elementary Uncountable noun

n. the fact that you are able to do something.

n. the quality or state of being able; the possession of the necessary power, resources, or capacity to perform an action.

“The manager was impressed by her ability to solve problems quickly.”

“The candidate demonstrated a remarkable ability to remain composed under intense questioning from the board of directors.”

Usage

Usually followed by a 'to-infinitive' when describing a specific action.

Pitfall

He has the ability of speaking five languages.

He has the ability to speak five languages.

The noun 'ability' is followed by a 'to-infinitive', not 'of' + '-ing'.

Synonyms

capacitycapabilitypower

Antonyms

inabilityincapacity

02a skill or talent

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun

n. a natural talent or a skill that you have learned.

n. a specific level of competence, mental power, or aptitude in a particular area.

“She has great musical ability and plays three different instruments.”

“The school's curriculum is designed to cater to students of all academic abilities, ensuring no child is left behind.”

Usage

Often used in the plural ('abilities') when referring to a person's various talents.

Synonyms

skilltalentaptitudegift

03legal power

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Law Formal · Technical

n. the legal right or power to do something.

n. the legal wherewithal or authority to act in a specific capacity.

“The contract gives him the ability to sign documents for the company.”

“The tribunal questioned the legal ability of the representative to enter into a binding agreement on behalf of the minor.”

Usage

In legal contexts, this often overlaps with 'capacity'.

Teaching tip

This sense is highly specific to formal and legal documents; in everyday English, 'right' or 'authority' is more common.

Synonyms

authoritycompetenceright

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “ability” in context.

01. ability to adapt 02. ability to cope 03. ability to create 04. ability to find 05. ability to get 06. ability to identify 07. ability to produce 08. ability to regulate 09. develop ability 10. enhance ability 11. human ability 12. improve ability

Etymology

First attested in the 1300s, the term enters English via the Middle English abilite, which denoted suitability or aptitude. This was a development of the Old French ableté, itself derived from the Latin habilitās, meaning aptness or skill. The Latin root rests upon habilis, signifying a person who is fit or able; the modern English form remains the equivalent of able plus the suffix -ity.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Related words

ableablenessundoubted

Grammar

Ability: 'be able to'

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Very common
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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