What does "ability" mean?

1. (capacity to do something) the fact that you are able to do something. 2. (a skill or talent) a natural talent or a skill that you have learned. 3. (legal power) the legal right or power to do something.

How do you use "ability"?

Usually followed by a 'to-infinitive' when describing a specific action. Often used in the plural ('abilities') when referring to a person's various talents. In legal contexts, this often overlaps with 'capacity'.

Is it correct to say "He has the ability of speaking five languages."?

No — say "He has the ability to speak five languages.". The noun 'ability' is followed by a 'to-infinitive', not 'of' + '-ing'.

ability

US //əˈbɪɫəˌti// UK //ɐbˈɪlətˌi// abil·i·ty

1 capacity to do something (n.)
A2 Elementary

the fact that you are able to do something.

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

Example

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

Example

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.
- inability
- incapacity
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'.
2 a skill or talent (n.)
B1 Intermediate

a natural talent or a skill that you have learned.

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

Example

She has great musical ability and plays three different instruments.

Example

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.

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3 legal power (n.)
C1 Advanced Formal Technical Law

the legal right or power to do something.

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

Example

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

Example

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'.

Teacher's tip

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

Origin

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.