chops
n. C / U B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈtʃɑps// UK //tʃˈɒps// chops
n. your skill or ability to do something well. You use this word when someone shows they are very good at a task.
n. informal term for a person's skill, competence, or ability in a specific area. Typically used in the plural form.
She has the chops to lead the team.
The new manager has the chops to handle the crisis because of her years of experience.
Critics argued that while the actor possessed the technical chops, he lacked the emotional depth required for the role.
From the plural of chop (“jaw, side of a harbour”). The jazz slang sense “musical ability” is a reference to the use of the lips to blow instruments.
See the etymology of the corresponding lemma form.