# ability

/əˈbɪɫəˌti/ (US) · /ɐbˈɪlətˌi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ability
Updated: 2026-05-01

## Senses

### 1. capacity to do something

noun · CEFR A2

the fact that you are able to do something.

For teachers: 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.

### 2. a skill or talent

noun · CEFR B1

a natural talent or a skill that you have learned.

For teachers: 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.

### 3. legal power

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

the legal right or power to do something.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- She has the ability to speak three languages fluently.
- The manager hired him because of his proven ability to solve complex technical problems under pressure.
- While the athlete possessed immense natural ability, it was his dedication to rigorous daily training that eventually secured his place on the national team.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.